What is Tagrisso: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Tagrisso overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Tagrisso

Generic Names:

  • Tagrisso

Uses:

  • Treats non-small cell lung cancer.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Immunological Agent, Antineoplastic Agent

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Tagrisso used for?

Tagrisso is a cancer medicine that comes in tablet form. It is used to treat a certain type of non-small cell lung cancer and is only used if your tumor has a specific genetic marker known as EGFR T790M mutation. Tagrisso works by interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. Common side effects may include diarrhea, feeling tired, dry skin and rash.

What form(s) does Tagrisso come in

  • Tablet

What are common Tagrisso doses?

  • Tablet 40MG

  • Tablet 80MG

Common Tagrisso prescriptions

  • Tagrisso
    40mg tablet

  • Tagrisso
    80mg tablet

How to take Tagrisso

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

  • If you cannot swallow the tablet:Put it in a glass with 2 ounces (60 milliliters [mL]) of water. Do not use carbonated water or other liquids.Stir until the tablet is in small pieces, and drink the mixture right away.Add 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 240 mL) of water to the same glass, and drink it to make sure you get the full dose.The tablet may also be given using a nasogastric tube. Dissolve it in 15 mL of non-carbonated water, then add another 15 mL of water to transfer any medicine to the syringe.

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

  • Missed dose: Skip the missed dose, and then go back to your regular schedule. 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.

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

  • Missed dose: Skip the missed dose, and then go back to your regular schedule. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • If you cannot swallow the tablet:Put it in a glass with 2 ounces (60 milliliters [mL]) of water. Do not use carbonated water or other liquids.Stir until the tablet is in small pieces, and drink the mixture right away.Add 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 240 mL) of water to the same glass, and drink it to make sure you get the full dose.The tablet may also be given using a nasogastric tube. Dissolve it in 15 mL of non-carbonated water, then add another 15 mL of water to transfer any medicine to the syringe.

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

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

What to do if you miss a dose of Tagrisso

Tagrisso contraindications

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

Tagrisso warnings

  • Oral routeThis 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.

  • Oral routeThis medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Women should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 6 weeks after the last dose. Men should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 4 months after the last dose.

  • Do not breastfeed while you are taking this medicine and for 2 weeks after your last dose.

  • Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, heart failure, heart rhythm problems (including QT prolongation), or a history of eye problems or other lung disease or breathing problems.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Interstitial lung disease or pneumonitisHeart rhythm changesHeart problems, including heart failureEye problems, including keratitisSerious skin reactions

  • 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.

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

Tagrisso interactions

  • Some medicines can affect how osimertinib works. Tell your doctor if you are using carbamazepine, fexofenadine, itraconazole, phenytoin, rifampicin, rosuvastatin, St John's wort, sulfasalazine, topotecan, or medicine to treat heart rhythm problems.

  • Do not breastfeed while you are taking this medicine and for 2 weeks after your last dose.

  • Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, heart failure, heart rhythm problems, or a history of other lung disease or breathing problems.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Interstitial lung disease or pneumonitisHeart rhythm problems, including QT prolongationHeart problems, including heart failure

  • Oral routeThis 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.

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

Tagrisso side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Blurred vision, eye pain

  • Fast, slow, pounding, or uneven heartbeat

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting

  • 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, or loose skin

  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

  • Trouble breathing, chest pain, fever, chills, cough

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Diarrhea

  • Rash, dry skin, changes in your nails

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