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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking gefitinib (Iressa)?

Do not use gefitinib without first talking to your doctor if you have

• liver disease; or
• lung or breathing problems (other than lung cancer).

You may not be able to take gefitinib, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Gefitinib is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use gefitinib without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Birth control should be used during treatment with gefitinib.

It is not known whether gefitinib passes into breast milk. Do not take gefitinib without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use gefitinib (Iressa)?

Gefitinib should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Take each dose of gefitinib with a full glass of water.

Gefitinib can be taken with or without food.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with gefitinib depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.

It is important to take gefitinib regularly to get the most benefit.

Your doctor may want you to have blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with gefitinib to monitor progress and side effects.

Your healthcare provider will store gefitinib as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing gefitinib at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.

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