Tarceva Side Effects
The most common Tarceva side effects include:Rash: Rashes related to Tarceva usually appear within 10 days of starting treatment. Those taking Tarceva in combination with gemcitabine can develop a rash anytime during treatment. Tarceva rashes look similar to acne or dry skin and can appear on the body and face. It most often appears from the waist up, however. For some, the rash can be itchy or feel like a minor sunburn. Not all people will develop a skin rash from Tarvceva. Those who do develop rash often report it subsiding during treatment and as the dosage is lowered.
A 2007 study found that those who developed a rash while taking Tarceva had better outcomes than those who did not. It is not that the drug was completely ineffective in those who did not develop a rash, but those who developed a rash were more likely to benefit. So, while a rash related to Tarceva use is looked upon favorably by oncologists, it is not a guarantee.
It is very important that you let your doctor know if you begin to develop a rash. Do not apply any medications to treat the rash, even over the counter or herbal remedies should be avoided. Consult your doctor first. Your doctor may prescribe a topical antibiotic or other ointment to help with the rash. Some may benefit from temporarily stopping treatment, even if it just for a few days.
It is important to note that severe blistering skin rashes have occurred during clinical trials. It is an extremely rare side effect that has been compared to Stevens-Johnsons syndrome, a potentially fatal condition that is caused by a severe allergic reaction to a medication.
Diarrhea: Another common side effects of Tarceva is diarrhea, which can be controlled with over the counter anti-diarrhea medications. Before taking any medication, consult with your doctor. He or she may have specific recommendations concerning the brand and the dosage. If your diarrhea worsens or cannot be controlled with over the counter medications, call your doctor. The concern with diarrhea is that it could result in dehydration, so you want to discuss the condition with your doctor.
Other Common Side Effects: Other common side effects of Tarceva include loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Always remember to inform your doctor of any side effects you are experiencing.
Rare Tarceva Side Effects
In clinical trials, these rare side effects of Tarceva were observed:
- intestinal perforations
- lung disease
- kidney/liver damage
- damage to the eyes
Be sure to provide your doctor has a thorough health history that includes all over the counter medications, herbal remedies, and prescription drugs you take. Certain conditions may increase your risk of developing uncommon side effects.
Keep in mind that these are extremely rare side effects. If you are concerned about the risks of these side effects, talk to your doctor. Together, you can discuss the benefits versus the risks of taking Tarceva.
When To Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if you:
- develop a cough
- experience shortness of breath
- experience eye irritation
- Develop a skin rash or your rash worsens
- have a fever
- experience vomiting or diarrhea that is worsening
Source:
American Cancer Society. Erlotinib. Accessed February 10, 2010.
Wacker B, Nagrani T, Weinberg J, et al. Correlation between development of rash and efficacy in patients treated with the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor erlotinib in two large phase III studies. Clin Cancer Res. 2007;13(13):3913-3921.
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CDG/content/CDG_erlotinib.asp
