Physicians prescribe Tarceva (erlotinib) as a chemotherapy medication to treat lung cancer and advanced pancreatic cancer. Tarceva slows cancer cell growth and the spread of cancer through the body. The medication is specifically chosen for treating patients with advanced localized cancer or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer when another chemotherapy has already been tried without success. A variety of side effects are possible with this chemotherapy treatment.
Fetal Toxicity
Tarceva can cause fetal maladies in pregnant women. Drugs.com warns that Tarceva is a FDA Category D medication. Because the drug is known to be harmful to an unborn fetus, pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should not use the medication. Birth control should be continued for at least two weeks after discontinuing Tarceva therapy.
Nausea and Vomiting
Tarceva therapy may cause nausea and vomiting. Drugs.com states that appetite loss and diarrhea are also possible side effects from using the chemotherapy. Weight loss and fatigue are also common side effects, with more than half of tested patients experiencing one of these side effects.
Skin Rash
Many patients being treated for lung cancer with Tarceva suffered a skin rash. RxList states about 75 percent of all patients using Tarceva developed a skin rash, and another 12 percent experienced extremely dry skin when taking the medication. Patients may also develop acne when taking this medication.
Cough and Secondary Infection
Many patients who take Tarceva have problems with coughing and secondary infections. RxList states that about one-third of all patients who use Tarceva develop a dry, unproductive cough. Another 24 percent develop a secondary infection after starting Tarceva therapy.
Cardiovascular Maladies
Patients who take Tarceva may experience circulatory problems as side effects. Tarceva's website states those who take the drug could develop either bleeding or clotting problems. Patients taking the drug may suffer a heart attack or stroke as a side effect.
Fatal Side Effects
Liver, kidney and gastrointestinal problems can occur as side effects due to taking Tarceva. Tarceva's states perforated stomach and intestinal and bowel linings have been reported by Tarceva users, with some fatalities. It also states liver and kidney maladies have occurred in patients taking the drug, and fatalities have been reported because of these problems.
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