Osimertinib: how to take it safely
Tagrisso
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats some types of lung cancer with an EGFR gene change.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow whole with water. Do not crush or chew.
When to take it
Take it once a day, at the same time.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Missing doses without your doctor's advice.
- St John's wort.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart rhythm problems or take medicines that affect the heart.
- Pregnancy.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Rash, dry skin, diarrhoea, mouth sores, nail problems, tiredness.
Get help if
New or worsening breathlessness or cough, palpitations, fainting, severe rash or vision changes: see a doctor straight away.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.