Gefitinib
Iressa (gefitinib) is a targeted therapy medication classified as an EGFR (epidermal growth factor factor receptor) tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It is primarily used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients whose tumors have specific EGFR mutations. The medication is taken orally and works by blocking signals that promote cancer cell growth and division.
Iressa is an oral targeted therapy for EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer that works by inhibiting cancer cell growth signals.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 281883
- Generic
- Iressa
- 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.
Iressa is indicated for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients whose tumors have EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 substitution mutations. Testing for these specific genetic mutations is required before treatment to identify appropriate candidates.
Iressa is an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor that works by blocking the activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR is a protein on the surface of cells that plays a key role in cell growth and division. By inhibiting EGFR, Iressa helps slow or stop the growth of cancer cells that depend on this signaling pathway.
Iressa is a prescription-only medication available in tablet form for oral administration. Common side effects may include skin reactions (rash, acne), diarrhea, and nausea. Patients should be monitored for interstitial lung disease and liver function changes during treatment. Drug interactions may occur with certain medications that affect liver enzymes.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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