Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2026
Establishing Dual Resistance to EGFR-TKI and MET-TKI in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells In Vitro with a 2-step Dose-escalation Procedure
Published on: August 11, 2017
Practical management of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer treated with gefitinib
Neelam T Shah1, Mark G Kris, William Pao
1Thoracic Oncology Service, Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
Purpose:
The use of gefitinib, the first drug approved to inhibit the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase, is indicated in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer with tumors progressive after chemotherapy. The unique mechanism of action of this agent leads to distinctive patterns of response and toxicity in persons with lung cancer. Many of the principles of management relevant to gefitinib are distinct from those with conventional cytotoxic drugs. To meet this need, we present practical guidelines on the use of gefitinib in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer.
Methods:
This article reviews gefitinib's indications, dosing, response phenomena, and patterns of relapse in individuals with radiographic response.
Results:
We present our recommendations for the management of rash and diarrhea caused by this agent.
Conclusion:
This information can guide practitioners and help them inform their patients about what to expect when they receive gefitinib.
Insights
Gefitinib, an epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, offers unique benefits for non-small-cell lung cancer. This guide provides practical recommendations for its use and management of side effects like rash and diarrhea.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Gefitinib is a targeted therapy for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) post-chemotherapy.
- Its mechanism involves inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase.
- Management differs from conventional chemotherapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide practical guidelines for gefitinib use in NSCLC.
- To outline distinctive response and toxicity patterns.
- To address management of specific side effects.
Main Methods:
- Review of gefitinib's indications and dosing.
- Analysis of response phenomena and relapse patterns.
- Development of recommendations for managing rash and diarrhea.
Main Results:
- Gefitinib exhibits unique response and toxicity profiles in NSCLC patients.
- Specific recommendations are provided for managing gefitinib-induced rash and diarrhea.
- Guidance is offered for practitioners and patients regarding treatment expectations.
Conclusions:
- Gefitinib management requires distinct approaches compared to cytotoxic drugs.
- Understanding gefitinib's unique characteristics is crucial for effective patient care.
- These guidelines aim to optimize treatment outcomes and patient experience with gefitinib.
