Lapatinib (brand name Tykerb) is a targeted therapy used primarily to treat breast cancer. It is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that specifically targets and blocks the activity of two important proteins involved in cancer cell growth and survival: HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) and EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor). These proteins are often overexpressed or mutated in certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer, and their activation can drive cancer cell proliferation and spread and lapatinib Price in India.

Primary uses of lapatinib:
HER2-positive breast cancer:
Lapatinib is most commonly used in the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, a type of breast cancer in which the cancer cells have an excess of the HER2 protein. HER2-positive cancers tend to grow and spread more aggressively than HER2-negative breast cancers.

It is typically used in cases of metastatic breast cancer (when the cancer has spread beyond the breast) or locally advanced breast cancer. Combination therapy for advanced breast cancer: In combination with capecitabine (a chemotherapy drug), lapatinib is used to treat HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer that either does not respond to other HER2-targeted treatments (such as trastuzumab) or where those treatments have stopped working. It may also be used in combination with letrozole (an aromatase inhibitor) for hormone receptor-positive, HER2-positive breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic). Other cancers (investigational use): Lapatinib has been studied for potential use in other cancers where HER2 or EGFR plays a role, although its approved indications are mainly limited to breast cancer. How lapatinib works: Lapatinib blocks the tyrosine kinase activity of the HER2 and EGFR receptors on cancer cells. These receptors are involved in signaling pathways that promote cell growth, survival, and division. By blocking these signals, lapatinib stops cancer cells from growing and reduces the spread of tumors.

Administration:
Lapatinib is taken orally, usually in the form of tablets.
The usual dose for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer is 1250 mg daily (taken as 5 tablets).
It is usually taken with food to improve absorption.
Side effects:
While lapatinib can be effective in treating certain cancers, it can also cause side effects. Some common and serious side effects include:

Common side effects:

Diarrhea: Often the most common side effect. Diarrhea can be severe and may require treatment with medications to control it.
Rashes: Skin rashes, especially acne-like rashes, may occur.
Fatigue: Many patients experience fatigue or weakness during treatment.
Nausea: Some patients may experience nausea, although this is usually mild.
Serious side effects:

Cardiovascular problems: Lapatinib may affect the heart, causing heart failure or reduced heart function. Close cardiac monitoring is recommended, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiac disease.
Liver toxicity: Liver function may be affected, causing elevated liver enzymes. Regular liver function tests are necessary during treatment.
Lung toxicity: In rare cases, lapatinib can cause interstitial lung disease (ILD) or pneumonitis, causing difficulty breathing and coughing.
Effectiveness:

Lapatinib has been shown to be effective in HER2-positive breast cancer, especially in cases where the cancer has become resistant to other treatments such as trastuzumab (Herceptin) or anthracycline-based chemotherapy. Clinical studies have shown that:

Combination therapy with lapatinib and capecitabine may improve survival and disease progression in metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer.

Lapatinib is generally well tolerated but requires close monitoring due to potential heart and liver-related side effects.

Conclusion:
Lapatinib is an important targeted therapy for HER2-positive breast cancer, especially for metastatic or advanced cases where the cancer has become resistant to other treatments. By blocking the HER2 and EGFR pathways, it helps slow down tumor growth and can be used in combination with other therapies such as capecitabine or letrozole for better outcomes. However, its use requires monitoring of potential side effects, especially those affecting the heart and liver.

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