Detailed explanation of the effects of Gefitinib tablets in the treatment of lung cancer

Introduction: Gefitinib Tablet, trade name Iressa, is an oral epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It is mainly used to treat advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially when there are EGFR sensitive mutations in the patient's tumor cells. It is one of the better drugs for the treatment of advanced lung cancer.

The role of Gefitinib tablets in the treatment of lung cancer

Aiming at specific gene mutations, Gefitinib is particularly suitable for patients with lung adenocarcinoma or lung cancer with EGFR gene mutations. Gefitinib can promote the automatic apoptosis of tumor cells and help tumor cells achieve self-management, self-discipline and self-control, thus inhibiting their excessive growth. By changing the target signaling pathway, cancer lesions are killed and the number of tumor cells is reduced. For patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer who have previously received chemotherapy, gefitinib can improve the condition, improve the quality of life, and prolong the survival time of the patients to a certain extent. In clinical trials, gefitinib has been shown to improve disease-related symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

Efficacy and survival of gefitinib tablets

Among the patients treated with gefitinib, a higher proportion of patients achieved objective response (tumor shrinkage or disappearance). Although can significantly improve PFS, in some studies, the improvement in overall survival (OS) is not significant compared with traditional chemotherapy. But for patients carrying EGFR-sensitive mutations, gefitinib provides better quality of life and fewer toxic side effects. Gefitinib has shown significant efficacy in the treatment of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer carrying EGFR sensitive mutations, and can effectively control tumor progression and improve patients' symptoms and quality of life.

Pharmacokinetics of gefitinib tablets

After oral administration of gefitinib, gefitinib is absorbed slowly, with an average terminal half-life of approximately 41 hours. It is administered once a day and reaches steady state after 7-10 days of administration. Peak plasma concentrations occur 3 to 7 hours after dosing. Concomitant use with CYP3A4 inducers may reduce efficacy, and concomitant use with drugs that cause a sustained increase in gastric pH may reduce the plasma concentration of gefitinib. There are currently no data on use in pregnant or lactating women. Reproductive toxicity has been observed in animal experiments. It is recommended to avoid pregnancy and lactation during treatment.

Gefitinib also has some adverse reactions, such as diarrhea, rash, skin itching, etc. While taking gefitinib, patients should pay close attention to their physical condition and conduct treatment under the guidance of a doctor. It should be noted that gefitinib is mainly effective for non-small cell lung cancer, and the therapeutic effect may not be significant for other types of lung cancer. A comprehensive evaluation should be carried out before use and treatment should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.