What is Gilotrif: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Gilotrif overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Gilotrif

Generic Names:

  • Gilotrif

Uses:

  • Treats non-small cell lung cancer.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antineoplastic Agent

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Gilotrif used for?

Gilotrif is used to treat type of lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

What form(s) does Gilotrif come in

  • Tablet

What are common Gilotrif doses?

  • Bottle 30 Tablets

How to take Gilotrif

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Take this medicine on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Missed dose: If your next dose is more than 12 hours away, take your medicine as soon as you can. If your next dose is less than 12 hours away, skip the missed dose and take a dose at the regular time. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medicine in its original container to protect from light and moisture.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Take this medicine on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medicine in its original container to protect from light and moisture.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Missed dose: If your next dose is more than 12 hours away, take your medicine as soon as you can. If your next dose is less than 12 hours away, skip the missed dose and take a dose at the regular time. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

What to do if you miss a dose of Gilotrif

Gilotrif contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to afatinib, or if you are pregnant.

Gilotrif warnings

  • Oral routeIt is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Keep using birth control during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after your last dose.

  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, stomach or bowel problems, or other lung problems. Tell your doctor if you wear contact lenses or have a history of eye problems, such as keratitis or severe dry eyes.

  • Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 weeks after your last dose of this medicine.

  • Oral routeMedicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems: Diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration or kidney damage if not treatedHeart, liver, or lung problemsEye or vision problemsSevere skin reactionStomach perforation (hole in the stomach)

  • This medicine could cause infertility. Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Gilotrif interactions

  • Some medicines can affect how afatinib works. Tell your doctor if you are also using any of the following:Amiodarone, carbamazepine, cyclosporine, erythromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nelfinavir, phenobarbital, phenytoin, quinidine, rifampicin, ritonavir, saquinavir, St John's wort, tacrolimus, or verapamilNSAID pain medicine (including aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)Steroid medicine

  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or other lung problems. Tell your doctor if you wear contact lenses or have a history of eye problems, such as keratitis or severe dry eyes.

  • Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 weeks after your last dose of this medicine.

  • Oral routeMedicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems: Diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration or kidney damage if not treatedHeart, liver, or lung problemsEye or vision problemsSevere skin reaction

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Gilotrif side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Blistering, peeling, red skin rash

  • Severe diarrhea or diarrhea that does not stop

  • Change in how much or how often you urinate, bloody or cloudy urine, painful urination

  • Trouble breathing, chest pain, cough, fever

  • Vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds

  • Blurred vision, eye redness, irritation, swelling, or pain

  • Rapid weight gain, swelling in your ankles, feet, or legs

  • Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes

  • Bloody, black, or tarry stools, severe stomach pain

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat

  • Acne, mild rash, itching, dry skin

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