The Connection Between Erlotinib Tarceva and Pancreatic Cancer

1. The Connection Between Erlotinib Tarceva and Pancreatic Cancer Tarceva (Generic: Erlotinib) is generally prescribed for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and has a specific EGFR mutation. Erlotinib / Tarceva cost infomation Tarceva for treating Advanced Stage Pancreatic Cancer In combination with another medication Gemcitabine, Tarceva (Erlotinib) is used for treating patients who have been diagnosed with advanced stage pancreatic cancer. It is prescribed to such patients who have previously not received chemotherapy or if the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body and cannot be surgically removed. In a study conducted to observe the effectiveness of tarceva on advanced stage pancreatic cancer. It was revealed that 50% of patients who were given gemcitabine along with tarceva had a longer average survival time than the other 50% of patients who were given gemcitabine with placebo (a sugar pill). The patients who were treated with gemcitabine and tarceva had a 19% lesser risk of death and around 9% of those patient’s tumours grew smaller. Tarceva / Erlotinib Mechanism of Action Tarceva can affect cancer cells as well as healthy cells. It may inhibit the functioning of a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor or EGFR that certain cancer cells require for their growth. However, the exact workings of Tarceva are not fully understood.

2. Erlotinib / Tarceva cost infomation Side Effects of Tarceva (Erlotinib) Taking tarceva may cause some serious side effects: ➢Pregnancy Tarceva can cause harm to the unborn baby. Use effective birth control during while taking Tarceva and for at least a month after taking the last dose. Immediately contact your doctor if you become pregnant during the treatment with tarceva. Breast feeding while taking this medication and for 2 weeks after taking the last dose is also not recommended as it can harm the nursing baby. ➢Problem in Lungs It has been observed that taking Tarceva can cause lung problems that may even lead to death. Some symptoms of lung problems include fever, coughing and shortness of breath. ➢Bleeding and Clotting Tarceva can cause bleedings and blood clot problems that can result in strokes and even death. ➢Problems in Liver and Kidney Inform your doctor or healthcare provider if you have a history of liver or kidney disease. Tarceva can cause severe liver and kidney problems that can affect their functioning. ➢Eye Problems Some side effects of tarceva include dried eyes and unusual growth of eyelashes. Swelling of the cornea can also occur which can cause irritation or even damage the eye.

3. ➢Skin, Hair and Nail Conditions In some cases, the patient may experience loose nails, hardened nails, hairiness or black nails. Tarceva can cause also cause rashes that get worse from sun exposure. The patient may also experience dry skin or dark skin. ➢Intestinal and Stomach Conditions Tarceva can cause a hole in the stomach or intestines called a GI perforation. It is more likely to occur if the patient has a medical history of ulcers or is taking medications that block the growth of blood vessels. Steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications can also increase the risk of a GI perforation. Frequently Asked Questions about Tarceva (Erlotinib) What are the common side effects from taking Tarceva? For the treatment of pancreatic cancer, side effects may include: •Loss of appetite •Diarrhea •Tiredness •Nausea •Rashes For the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, side effects may include: •Shortness of breath and/or weakness •Rashes •Consistent coughs •Loss of appetite •Feeling weak •Diarrhea

4. Should I take other medications while taking Tarceva? Before your treatment with Tarceva begins, inform your healthcare provider about all the medications that you are taking. Do not begin taking other medications without the knowledge of your healthcare provider. It is also important to not consume grapefruit or grapefruit products as they may interact with Tarceva to cause unwanted side effects. The information provided on the page is meant for the purpose of being helpful and educational. It should not be considered as medical advice.