-5%
Gefitinib, the active ingredient in Geficent, is a reversible inhibitor of EGFR kinase activity, preventing the autophosphorylation of tyrosine residues. This inhibition disrupts EGFR-dependent cell proliferation. Gefitinib has a higher binding affinity for EGFR exon 19 deletion and exon 21 point mutation (L858R) than for wild-type EGFR. It also inhibits IGF and PDGF-mediated signaling at clinically relevant concentrations.
Geficent is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors have EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations. Detection of these mutations must be confirmed by an FDA-approved test.
Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lung grow uncontrollably, disrupting normal lung function.
Types of Lung Cancer
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
- The most common form of lung cancer.
- Begins when cells lining the lung start to multiply uncontrollably.
Risk Factors
- Smoking: The leading risk factor for lung cancer.
- Second-hand smoke, exposure to harmful chemicals, and environmental pollutants may also contribute.
Common Symptoms of NSCLC
- Persistent Cough: A cough that doesn’t go away.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
- Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest area.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
Cancerous lung cells can travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, forming secondary tumors.