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Home > Drug Category > Cancer Medications > Tarceva and Equivalent

BigMountainDrugs.com supplies only genuine Tarceva from Canada shipped using the Canadian packaging. This Tarceva is manufactured by Genetech Inc. (a member of Roche Group), the worldwide manufacturer of Tarceva. This offer is neither endorsed nor authorized by Genetech Inc. (the United States and Canadian distributor of Tarceva). BigMountainDrugs.com has no affiliation whatsoever with Genetech Inc.

Tarceva (Erlotinib) Information

Tarceva, which contains the active ingredient erlotinib, is a targeted therapy medication known as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It is primarily used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. It is also used in combination with other medications to treat advanced pancreatic cancer. Tarceva is specifically designed for patients whose cancer cells have certain genetic markers (EGFR mutations) that cause the cells to grow and divide too quickly.

The medication is taken by mouth as a tablet, typically once daily. For the drug to be absorbed correctly, take it on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after eating. Taking the medication at the same time each day helps maintain a consistent level of the drug in your system to fight cancer cells effectively.

The mechanism of action of erlotinib involves blocking the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). In certain cancers, this protein is overactive, sending constant signals to cells to grow and multiply. By binding to these receptors and blocking signals, Tarceva slows or stops tumour growth and spread.

Tarceva Side Effects

Tarceva is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Commonly reported effects include a skin rash (which often looks like acne), diarrhea, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. You may also experience a persistent cough, mouth sores, or dry, itchy skin.

More serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek help if you experience:
• Eye problems: Severe eye pain, redness, or blurred vision.
• Kidney or liver dysfunction: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or a significant decrease in urination.
• Lung problems: Sudden or worsening shortness of breath, chest pain, or a new fever.
• Severe allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, or throat; hives; or significant difficulty breathing.
• Severe digestive issues: Severe or persistent diarrhea that leads to dehydration, or severe stomach pain.
• Severe skin reactions: Blistering or peeling of the skin, which may indicate a rare but serious condition.

Tarceva Precautions

Do not use Tarceva if you are allergic to erlotinib or any of the tablet’s ingredients. It is important to disclose if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or stomach ulcers. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history.

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements. Tarceva has significant interactions with many drugs, including blood thinners (like warfarin), certain anti-seizure medications, and stomach acid reducers (like proton pump inhibitors), which can prevent the body from absorbing the medication.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Tarceva can cause serious harm to a developing fetus and should not be used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age must use highly effective contraception during treatment and for at least one month after the final dose. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Tarceva and for two weeks after the last dose, as it is unknown if the medication passes into breast milk and could harm the infant.

Take Tarceva exactly as prescribed. Swallow the tablets whole with water; do not crush or break them. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can interfere with how your body processes the medicine. Smoking significantly reduces the amount of Tarceva in your blood, making the treatment much less effective. It is strongly advised to quit smoking during treatment. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose to make up for it. Wait and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Store the tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and light, and keep them safely out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Tarceva?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Tarceva.