Afatinib
Gilotrif (afatinib) is a prescription oral medication used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients whose tumors have specific EGFR mutations. It is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that works by targeting and blocking proteins that contribute to cancer cell growth. This medication is typically prescribed when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Gilotrif is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1430268
- Generic
- Gilotrif
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Gilotrif is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors have EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 substitution mutations. It is used as a first-line treatment for these specific genetic mutations.
Gilotrif is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that irreversibly blocks EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and related proteins (HER2, HER3, HER4). By blocking these receptors, it inhibits tumor cell proliferation and survival signals, helping to slow or stop cancer growth.
Common side effects include diarrhea, rash, acne, dry skin, and mouth sores. Patients should be monitored for severe diarrhea and potential lung problems. Regular monitoring of liver function may be needed. This medication may cause harm to a developing fetus and should not be used during pregnancy.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy