Lapatinib
Tykerb (lapatinib) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of breast cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors and is typically used in combination with other chemotherapy medications for patients who have already received prior treatment.
Tykerb is a targeted therapy medication used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer in combination with other drugs.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 659616
- Generic
- Tykerb
- 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.
Tykerb is indicated for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, specifically used in combination with capecitabine for patients who have received prior treatment with anthracyclines, taxanes, and trastuzumab.
Tykerb is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that works by targeting and inhibiting the HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) and EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) proteins, which are involved in cancer cell growth and proliferation.
Tykerb should only be prescribed by oncologists experienced in cancer therapy. Common side effects may include diarrhea, rash, nausea, and fatigue. Patients should be monitored for cardiac events and liver function changes. The medication should be taken exactly as directed, typically once daily on an empty stomach.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy