Description
LuciAfa 40mg is an oral tablet containing Afatinib 40 mg (as Afatinib dimaleate 59.12 mg), manufactured by Lucius Pharmaceuticals Ltd. It is a once-daily, second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) used as a first-line treatment for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients whose tumors carry specific EGFR mutations.
LuciAfa contains the same active ingredient as Gilotrif® (Boehringer Ingelheim), first approved by the US FDA in July 2013.
How LuciAfa 40mg Works
Afatinib is an irreversible ErbB-family blocker. It permanently binds to and shuts down signaling from EGFR (ErbB1), HER2 (ErbB2), ErbB3, and ErbB4 receptors. By blocking these cancer-driving pathways, LuciAfa slows tumor growth and triggers cancer cell death — particularly in EGFR mutation-positive tumors. See the full afatinib drug profile on NIH DailyMed.
Uses
LuciAfa 40mg is prescribed for:
- First-line treatment of metastatic NSCLC with non-resistant EGFR mutations (exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R substitutions, confirmed by an FDA-approved test)
- NSCLC with certain uncommon EGFR mutations (S768I, L861Q, G719X)
- Metastatic squamous NSCLC progressing after platinum-based chemotherapy
A confirmed EGFR mutation diagnosis is required before starting treatment.
Dosage
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Standard dose | 40 mg once daily |
| Administration | Take on an empty stomach — at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food |
| Timing | Same time each day; do not double up on missed doses |
| Dose adjustment | May be reduced by 10 mg increments if side effects occur |
| Duration | Continue until disease progression or intolerable side effects |
Always follow your oncologist’s prescription. Full prescribing details are in the official FDA label for Gilotrif (afatinib). Storage: keep in a dry place at 20–25°C, away from light and out of reach of children.
Side Effects
Common: diarrhea, skin rash/acne, mouth sores (stomatitis), nail infection (paronychia), dry skin, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting.
Serious (seek medical help immediately): severe or persistent diarrhea, severe skin blistering/peeling, lung inflammation (breathlessness, cough, fever), liver problems, eye irritation or vision changes.
Manage diarrhea by drinking plenty of fluids. Use gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to reduce skin reactions. Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding; use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose.
FAQ
What is LuciAfa 40mg used for?
LuciAfa 40mg is used as a first-line treatment for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients with specific EGFR gene mutations, and for squamous NSCLC that has progressed after chemotherapy.
Is LuciAfa the same as Gilotrif?
Yes. Both contain Afatinib as the active ingredient. LuciAfa is the Lucius Pharmaceuticals (Bangladesh) version of Gilotrif®/Giotrif®.
How should I take LuciAfa 40mg?
Take one 40 mg tablet once daily on an empty stomach — at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating, at the same time each day.
Do I need a test before starting?
Yes. A confirmed EGFR mutation-positive diagnosis via an FDA-approved test is required before treatment begins.
What is the most common side effect?
Diarrhea and skin rash are the most common. Both are usually manageable with supportive care — drink fluids for diarrhea and use moisturizers and sunscreen for the skin.
Can the dose be lowered if side effects are severe?
Yes. Doctors may reduce the dose in 10 mg steps. Do not adjust the dose yourself — consult your oncologist.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
No. Afatinib can harm an unborn baby. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and use effective contraception during and for 2 weeks after treatment.
How should it be stored?
In a dry place at 20–25°C, away from light, and out of reach of children.
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