Tykerb is a medication that contains lapatinib and is used in the treatment of breast cancer. Lapatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that acts against proteins that control cellular growth and proliferation signals such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). The use of Tykerb should be prescribed by an oncologist or cancer specialist. The side effects and treatment process during the use of Tykerb may vary depending on the patient’s condition, so it is important to carefully follow the doctor’s instructions.
Tykerb: What is it Used For?
Tykerb is a medication used especially in the treatment of HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. Tykerb helps to inhibit the growth and proliferation of these types of cancer cells. It is often used in conjunction with other breast cancer medications and the treatment plan is determined by the doctor based on the patient’s condition. An oncologist or cancer specialist should prescribe and regulate the use of Tykerb.
How to Use Tykerb?
The use of Tykerb is prescribed by a healthcare professional or oncologist, and the dosage and usage instructions of the medication are determined based on the patient’s specific condition:
Doctor’s Instructions: You must use Tykerb exactly as recommended by your doctor.
Medication Timing: Tykerb should be taken regularly at specific times.
Tablet Form: Tykerb is available in tablet form.
Combination with Other Medications: Tykerb is often used in combination with another cancer treatment drug or drugs.
Side Effects: Side effects may occur during the use of Tykerb.
Discontinuation or Changes in Medication: You should not abruptly discontinue the medication doses during Tykerb treatment.
Doctor’s Check-ups: You should attend regular check-ups as recommended by your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should discuss your Tykerb usage with your doctor.
Tykerb: What are the Side Effects?
The side effects that may occur during the use of Tykerb can vary from person to person:
- nausea, diarrhea
- loss of appetite, headache
- vomiting, abdominal pain
- fatigue
- numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
- liver problems
- skin problems
- heart problems
- lung problems
- gastrointestinal problems
- eye problems
Does Tykerb Interact with Other Medications?
Tykerb can interact with other medications, therefore medication combinations should be carefully evaluated:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors
- Other Cancer Drugs
- Antacids
When Should Tykerb Not be Used?
There are situations where Tykerb should not be used or special conditions that should be taken into consideration:
Allergy: If you have previously experienced serious allergic reactions to Tykerb or any of its components, you may need to avoid using this medication.
Liver Problems: The use of Tykerb should be carefully evaluated in cases of liver disease or impaired liver function.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of using Tykerb during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not fully known.
Heart Problems: Especially if you have a history of cardiac arrhythmia or heart disease, the use of Tykerb may require special attention.
Drug Interactions: Tykerb can interact with other medications, therefore you should inform your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements, and other health products.
What Precautions Should be Taken While Using Tykerb?
There are some important considerations to take into account while using Tykerb:
Compliance with Doctor’s Instructions: You should only use Tykerb as recommended by your doctor and strictly follow the instructions.
Medication Timing: You should take Tykerb regularly and at the same time every day. Do not skip medication doses.
Tablet Form: Tykerb is available in tablet form.
Combination with Other Medications: Tykerb is often used in conjunction with other cancer treatment drugs or medications.
Side Effects: Side effects may occur during the use of Tykerb.
Discontinuation or Changes in Medication: You should not abruptly discontinue the medication doses during Tykerb treatment.
Doctor’s Check-ups: You should attend regular check-ups as recommended by your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should discuss your Tykerb usage with your doctor.
Traffic and Machinery Usage: Tykerb may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some patients.
The Availability of Tykerb in Turkey
Tykerb is available in Turkey and is covered by the Social Security Institution (SGK) under alternative reimbursement. The retail price of Tykerb Film Tablet 250 mg 70 tablets is 14,543.06 TL.
