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Frequently Asked Questions

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Videos

You may have recently learned that you or a loved one has lung cancer. No doubt you have many questions and want to know what options exist so you or your loved one can receive the best treatment possible. In this program you‘ll learn about advanced non-small-cell lung cancer and its treatment, including both chemotherapy and targeted therapy. And you‘ll see how a targeted therapy, a drug called Tarceva (erlotinib), may work to fight cancer. Tarceva is prescribed for people with advanced stage non-small-cell lung cancer who have had at least one prior chemotherapy treatment. In this program, you‘ll hear from people who will share their experiences living with non-small-cell lung cancer.

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Please see below for full indication and important safety information.

Disclaimer: These video resources are for general informational purposes only and are not meant to replace the medical advice of your doctor and other healthcare experts who make up your cancer team.

The patients who appear in this program are real patients diagnosed with non-small-cell lung cancer who agreed to speak about their experiences in their own words. They were compensated by Genentech and OSI for the time and expenses required to participate in the filming. Statements concerning their health and treatment were accurate at the time of filming (fall 2006). Due to the nature of non-small-cell lung cancer, the status of patients may change over time. No claims are made or implied regarding the current medical status of patients included in this program.

Indication and Usage for Lung Cancer Patients

Tarceva is prescribed for patients with advanced-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have received at least one prior chemotherapy regimen.

Important Safety Information

In clinical studies, there were infrequent reports of lung injuries similar to Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)-like events in patients taking Tarceva for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or other advanced solid tumors. Reports of these ILD-like lung injuries have been serious and have included deaths in some patients.

Liver and/or kidney problems (including deaths) have been reported in some patients taking Tarceva. Let your doctor know if you have a history of liver or kidney disease.

Holes that formed in the stomach, small intestine, or large bowel (including deaths) have been reported in patients taking Tarceva.

Severe blistering skin reactions including cases similar to Stevens-Johnson syndrome (including deaths) have been reported in patients taking Tarceva.

Eye irritation and damage to the cornea have been reported in patients taking Tarceva. Patients should tell their doctor about eye problems, including eye pain, that get worse.

Tarceva may cause harm to an unborn baby or may cause possible risk of pregnancy loss. Women should avoid becoming pregnant and avoid breastfeeding while taking Tarceva.

Call your doctor right away if you have these signs or symptoms:

  • New or worsening skin rash
  • Serious or ongoing diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, or stomach pain
  • New or worsening shortness of breath or cough
  • Fever
  • Eye irritation

If you smoke, you should stop smoking while taking Tarceva, as it may affect how well Tarceva works for you. If you continue to smoke you should speak to your doctor before taking Tarceva.

Let your doctor know if you are taking other prescription or over-the-counter drugs or herbal supplements before you start taking Tarceva. While taking Tarceva, do not start taking any new drugs or herbal supplements before talking to your doctor. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking Tarceva. Tarceva may also affect other medications you are taking.

Common side effects of Tarceva

Rash and diarrhea were the most common side effects associated with Tarceva in a large clinical study. They were usually mild to moderate. You may also have other changes in your skin.

Always let your doctor or nurse know if you experience any side effects. Ask your doctor or nurse for the best way to handle drug-related side effects.

Tarceva is not right for everyone. Ask your doctor if once-daily Tarceva is right for you.


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Additional Resources


Tarceva® erlotinib tablets