Tarceva 150mg Tablet
By Tarceva
Rx
10 Tablet in a Strip

Composition
Erlotinib(150mg)

Manufacturer - Roche Products India Pvt Ltd
1503, 15th Floor, 'The Capital', Plot no. C-70, Behind ICICI Bank, BKC, Bandra (E) , Mumbai 400051

Expires on or after
September, 2025
About Tarceva 150mg Tablet
Tarceva 150mg Tablet is a medication used to treat non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer in adults. This tablet contains Erlotinib, which belongs to the group of medicines called Kinase inhibitors. It works by targeting specific cancer cells that have specific EGFR mutations. Cancer is a condition where body cells start to grow uncontrollably and can spread to other parts of the body. Your doctor may conduct certain blood tests before starting the treatment with Tarceva 150mg Tablet.
When taking Tarceva 150mg Tablet, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. The tablet should be taken on an empty stomach or at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. You should continue taking Tarceva as long as your doctor advises, even if it takes several weeks or months to see or feel the benefits. It is crucial to take the medication exactly as prescribed to avoid serious side effects that can occur from incorrect dosages.
Common side effects of Tarceva 150mg Tablet include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, rash, and weight loss. Severe diarrhea can also occur, and in such cases, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids or consult your doctor. This medication can make your skin sensitive to sunlight, so wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen is essential when going outdoors. Inform your doctor if you experience mouth ulceration, changes in vision, or breathing difficulties while on Tarceva. Regular monitoring of liver function may be advised by your doctor during the course of treatment.
It is important to inform your healthcare team about all medications you are taking as they may interact with Tarceva. This medication is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and effective contraception is necessary during treatment to avoid pregnancy. Smoking should be avoided while taking Tarceva as it can reduce the effectiveness of the medicine. If you need to take an antacid or any other medication, make sure to take it at least 2 hours apart from Tarceva to prevent interactions.
Tarceva 150mg Tablet is not recommended for use in individuals with severe liver or kidney disease. Before starting this medication, inform your doctor if you have a history of diarrhea, glucuronidation disorder, peptic ulcers, diverticular disease, use contact lenses, or have had eye problems in the past. This medication is generally not recommended for children and adolescents below 18 years of age. If you experience any worsening symptoms while taking Tarceva 150mg Tablet, contact your doctor promptly.
Benefits
Tarceva 150mg Tablet offers significant benefits for individuals battling non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer. In the case of non-small cell lung cancer, a prevalent form of lung cancer affecting both smokers and non-smokers, this medication plays a crucial role in treatment. It can be used either on its own or in combination with other medications. Tarceva 150mg Tablet is a potent medicine with the ability to combat the progression of non-small cell lung cancer effectively. Patients are advised to have an open discussion with their healthcare provider to understand the associated risks and benefits. It is important to note that during the treatment with Tarceva 150mg Tablet, avoiding alcohol consumption is recommended, while ensuring adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water.
When it comes to pancreatic cancer, the pancreas plays a vital role in the digestion process and regulating blood sugar levels by producing natural insulin. Tarceva 150mg Tablet is a valuable resource in managing pancreatic cancer by addressing symptoms such as loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss. By inhibiting the actions of specific chemicals that promote the growth and spread of pancreatic cancer, this medication helps to control the disease and enhance the quality of life for patients. Ultimately, Tarceva 150mg Tablet offers individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer the potential to lead longer and healthier lives by effectively managing the disease progression.
How to use the Tarceva 150mg Tablet
To use Tarceva 150mg Tablet, follow the instructions given by your doctor regarding the dosage and duration of the medication. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water on an empty stomach. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet before taking it. It is important to adhere to your doctor's guidance to ensure the effectiveness of the medication. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any doubts or concerns about how to properly use Tarceva 150mg Tablet.
Uses of Tarceva 150mg Tablet
Tarceva 150mg Tablet is commonly used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer. This medication is prescribed by healthcare providers to help manage these types of cancers by targeting specific pathways in the body related to their growth and spread. Patients with non-small cell lung cancer or pancreatic cancer may benefit from Tarceva 150mg Tablet as part of their treatment plan to help slow down the progression of the disease and improve their overall quality of life.
What conditions Tarceva 150mg Tablet treats?
Tarceva 150mg Tablet is prescribed for non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer. For effective treatment, it should be taken on an empty stomach as advised by your doctor. Common side effects like nausea, vomiting, rash, and weight loss may occur. Be cautious of severe diarrhea and sensitivity to sunlight. Inform your doctor about any concerning symptoms. Regular liver function monitoring is recommended. Avoid alcohol and quit smoking during treatment. Effective contraception is important, and consult your healthcare team about other medications. If side effects persist, consult your doctor promptly.
Should you consult a doctor?
If you experience any concerning symptoms while taking Tarceva 150mg Tablet, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Contact your doctor if you develop ulceration in the mouth, experience changes in vision, or have difficulty breathing. Additionally, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider if you notice persistent side effects such as severe diarrhea, which can be managed by increasing fluid intake or with medical guidance.
Regular monitoring of liver function may be recommended by your doctor while using this medication. If you encounter abdominal or bone pain, breathlessness, persistent cough, or unexplained fever, it is advisable to consult your healthcare team. Any signs of infection, muscle pain, or significant weight loss should also be reported for proper evaluation.
Remember to disclose all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Tarceva 150mg Tablet is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and the use of effective contraception is crucial. If you are a smoker, it is advised to quit while on this medication to optimize its effectiveness. If you need to take antacids or other medications, ensure a time gap of at least 2 hours after using the cancer medicine to prevent any interference.
Side effects of Tarceva 150mg Tablet
When taking Tarceva 150mg Tablet, some common side effects may occur. These side effects are typically mild and may go away as your body gets used to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or cause concern, it is important to consult your doctor for guidance. Possible side effects include abdominal pain, bone pain, breathlessness, constipation, cough, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, infection, muscle pain, nausea, rash, stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), vomiting, and weight loss. Monitoring your symptoms and discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider can help ensure you have the support you need while taking this medication.
Safety advice

liver
When it comes to using Tarceva 150mg Tablet for patients with liver disease, caution is advised. It is important to consult with your doctor before starting treatment with this medication. Some patients with liver disease may require a dose adjustment when taking Tarceva 150mg Tablet. While limited information is available on the use of this tablet in patients with liver issues, it is noted that no dose adjustment is generally recommended for those with mild to moderate liver disease. Always seek guidance from your healthcare provider to ensure the safe and appropriate use of Tarceva 150mg Tablet.

kidney
Tarceva 150mg Tablet is safe for patients with kidney disease. No dose adjustment needed. Not recommended for those with severe kidney disease.

alcohol
Consult your doctor when consuming alcohol with Tarceva 150mg Tablet.

driving
It is not clear if Tarceva 150mg Tablet affects driving ability. Avoid driving if you notice any symptoms that impact focus or reaction time.

pregnancy
Tarceva 150mg Tablet is not safe to use during pregnancy due to the risk it poses to the developing baby. However, in rare life-threatening situations, a doctor may prescribe it if benefits outweigh risks. Consult your doctor before use.

breastfeeding
Tarceva 150mg Tablet may not be safe during breastfeeding, as there is a risk of the drug passing into breastmilk and potentially harming the baby. It is recommended to consult a doctor before using this medication while breastfeeding.
Consumption warning before consuming Tarceva 150mg Tablet
Before consuming Tarceva 150mg Tablet, it is crucial to follow certain precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment. Take this medication either on an empty stomach or at least one hour before or two hours after a meal as advised by your doctor. It is essential to adhere to your doctor's instructions strictly to avoid serious side effects that can result from incorrect usage or overdose. The duration of treatment may vary depending on your individual response, hence do not discontinue unless instructed by your doctor.
Common side effects of Tarceva 150mg Tablet include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, rash, and weight loss. Severe diarrhea may occur, in which case adequate fluid intake is recommended. Be cautious of increased sensitivity to sunlight, and protect yourself by wearing suitable clothing and using sunscreen. If you experience mouth ulcers, vision changes, or breathing difficulties while on this medication, inform your doctor promptly. Regular monitoring of liver function may be recommended during treatment.
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, as interactions can occur. Avoid using Tarceva 150mg Tablet during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and reliable contraception is advised for both sexes to prevent pregnancy. Quit smoking while on this medication, as it may affect its efficacy. If taking an antacid or any other medication, ensure a time gap of at least 2 hours after consuming the cancer medicine.
What if you forgot to take Tarceva 150mg Tablet?
If you forget to take a dose of Tarceva 150mg Tablet, simply skip that dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. It is important not to take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Just continue with the next scheduled dose as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Taking a double dose can increase your risk of experiencing unwanted side effects, so it's best to stick to the recommended schedule. Remember to always follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding the use of Tarceva 150mg Tablet to ensure you get the most benefit from this medication.
Related lab tests
For patients taking Tarceva 150mg Tablet, certain lab tests are important to monitor their health. One of the relevant lab tests is the Carcino Embryonic Antigen (CEA) test. The CEA test is used to measure the level of a protein called carcinoembryonic antigen in the blood. High levels of CEA can indicate the presence of certain types of cancer, including colorectal, pancreatic, and lung cancer. Monitoring CEA levels during treatment with Tarceva 150mg Tablet can help healthcare providers assess response to therapy and detect any potential cancer recurrence early. It is recommended to regularly undergo the CEA test as part of the comprehensive monitoring plan for patients using Tarceva 150mg Tablet. Additionally, other related lab tests that may be relevant for patients on this medication include liver function tests, complete blood count, and electrolyte levels. Regular monitoring through these lab tests can help ensure the effectiveness and safety of treatment with Tarceva 150mg Tablet.
Additional Information
Habit Forming | No |
Chemical Class | Quinazoline Derivative |
Therapeutic Class | - |
Action Class | Tyrosine kinase inhibitors |
FAQs
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is to the best of our abilities to ensure it is accurate, reliable, and reviewed by a team of professionals. It should not be used to diagnose, prevent, or cure any health problem. The information presented here is not intended to create a doctor-patient relationship or replace a registered medical practitioner's advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The absence or provision of any information or warning regarding any medicine should not be assumed as an implied or explicit assurance of safety or efficacy. We highly recommend consulting your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on the content encountered on our website. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.
₹40300
Inclusive of all taxes
Content verified by

Dr. Archana Prabhakar
MBBS, M.Med (Family Medicine)
Last update on 11-Feb-2025