Cancer is a class of disease characterized by out of control cell growth. There are numerous types of cancer that are classified by the type of cell it is affecting. Cancer affects the body when the modified cells divide uncontrollably to form a mass of tissues called as tumors. Not all tumors are cancerous; benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body.
Tumors can grow and interfere with the digestive, nervous and circulatory system which releases hormones that inhibit the activities in the body and alter their functioning. Some common signs and symptoms include a lump, weight loss, change of bowel movement, abnormal bleeding, and prolonged cough.
A survey was conducted in the US and it was found that more than 5,75,000 people die of cancer and more than 1.5 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year. It is to be believed that risk of cancer can be decreased by avoiding alcohol intake, tobacco, limiting UV ray exposure from the sun, maintaining a healthy diet, the level of fitness and seeking proper medical care.
Most common sites of cancer in males include lung, prostate, cancer, colon, rectum, liver, and stomach while those in women include breast, colon, rectum, cervix, lung and stomach. Cancer is actually the result of cells that grow uncontrollably and do not die. The majority of the cancers are due to environmental factors while rare chances are for genetic causes.
People with suspected cancers are investigated with medical tests such as blood tests, X-Ray, CT Scan, and endoscopy. There are many treatment options available for cancer such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy and palliative care. Chemotherapy is majorly used these days due to advancement in science and technology.
There are various medications available in chemotherapy and the most effective medication includes the use of Geftinat. Generic Geftinib is an EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) inhibitor which is available with the brand name of Geftinat.
Geftinib inhibits the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase by binding to the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding site of the enzyme. Thus the function of the EGFR tyrosine kinase in activating the Ras signal transduction cascade is inhibited, and malignant cells are inhibited. Geftinib is the first selective inhibitor of the EGFR tyrosine kinase which is also referred to as Her1 or ErbB-1.
EGFR is over expressed in the cells of certain types of human carcinomas – for example in lung and breast cancers. Over expression leads to inappropriate activation of the apoptotic Ras signal transduction cascade, eventually leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation. Geftinat is available in tablet dosage form of 250mg strength to be taken orally with sufficient amount of water with or without food. However, there are some side effects likely to be caused by using this medication such as diarrhea, rash, pimples, dry skin, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and weakness. Do not take the double dose of this medication in order to make up for the missed dose as overdosing can cause severe adverse effects which can be fatal to the human being.
There are some drugs that are likely to interfere with the activity of Geftinat such as CYP3A4 inducers and H2 receptors antagonist, anticoagulants such as Warfarin, use of beta blockers such as metoprolol can increase the plasma concentration when used with this medication. Avoid using the medication during pregnancy and lactation. This medication is contraindicated to be used during any sort of cardiac disorder, liver or kidney damage issues and any type of eye disorder.
The medication is to be stored at room temperature; to be kept away from heat, sunlight, and moisture. Keep it out of reach from children and pets. Use of herbal supplements, dietary supplements, vitamins and minerals should be avoided while using this medication.