Afatinib dimaleate is neither an immunotherapy nor a conventional chemotherapy. It belongs to kinase inhibitors class of anti-cancer medicines. It works by blocking a group of proteins. These proteins are known to be involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. By blocking the activity of these proteins, Afatinib dimaleate stops the cancer cells from growing and multiplying.

The peak levels of Afatinib dimaleate are reached 2-5 hours after taking it. However, it may take weeks or months to see a noticeable change in the progression of cancer. The symptoms may improve visibly, but the effectiveness of Afatinib dimaleate can be confirmed only after determining certain parameters.

Afatinib dimaleate is taken by mouth without food, at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after meals. Swallow the complete tablet with water without crushing or breaking it. Take this medicine once daily at about the same time each day. This will make it easier to remember to take this medicine. If you have difficulty in swallowing the tablet, dissolve it in a glass of water. Do not use any other liquid instead of water. Drop the tablet into the water without crushing it and stir occasionally for up to 15 minutes until the tablet is broken up into very small particles. Drink the liquid straight away. Then refill the glass with water and drink it to make sure all medicine is taken.

Afatinib dimaleate may decrease fertility in both men and women Therefore, if you have any concerns regarding fertility, talk to your doctor who might suggest sperm or egg preservation before starting treatment.

There are no supporting studies to suggest that Afatinib dimaleate can be used along with other chemotherapy medicines. Afatinib dimaleate is used to treat specific type of lung cancer when the prior chemotherapy has been insufficient.

No, Afatinib dimaleate cannot cure lung cancer, but it prolongs the survival of the patient. It may also reduce the size of the tumor.

You should avoid sun exposure as Afatinib dimaleate can make your skin sensitive to the sun. You may get a severe sunburn or may develop rash or acne or it may get worsened. Therefore, use sunscreen and wear a hat before moving out in the sun. Wear clothes that cover your skin if you have to go out in the sun.

Diarrhea is a very common side effect of Afatinib dimaleate. Severe diarrhea can cause excessive loss of body fluids (dehydration) and kidney problems that can sometimes lead to death. Start drinking plenty of fluids at the first signs of diarrhea and contact your doctor immediately. The doctor will start the appropriate antidiarrheal treatment (e.g. loperamide) as soon as possible. The doctor may also reduce your dose or discontinue the therapy if you develop severe diarrhea.