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Drug interaction between gefitinib and warfarin
Sayaka Onoda1, Hisashi Mitsufuji, Nobuo Yanase
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 228-0022, Japan.
Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology
|July 12, 2005
Summary
Gefitinib, a targeted lung cancer drug, may interact with warfarin, a blood thinner. Close monitoring of International Normalized Ratio (INR) and dose adjustments are recommended when these drugs are used together.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Drug Interactions
Background:
- Gefitinib is a targeted therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
- It inhibits the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase.
- Gefitinib shows activity in patients resistant to platinum-based chemotherapy.
Observation:
- Two cases of interaction between gefitinib and warfarin are presented.
- This interaction has not been previously reported in medical literature.
- Warfarin is a common anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots.
Findings:
- Gefitinib may alter the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.
- The International Normalized Ratio (INR), a measure of blood clotting, may be affected.
- This interaction can have potentially serious clinical consequences.
Implications:
- Close monitoring of INR is crucial for patients on both gefitinib and warfarin.
- Warfarin dosage adjustments may be necessary to maintain therapeutic anticoagulation.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of this potential drug interaction to ensure patient safety.