Adgef 250 Tablet (Gefitinib 250mg): Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- New or worsening shortness of breath, cough, or fever
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue
- Severe abdominal pain, especially with fever or changes in bowel habits
- Painful, spreading skin rash with blisters or peeling
- Eye pain, redness, blurred vision, or excessive tearing
- Severe or persistent diarrhoea leading to dehydration
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is chemogef 250mg tablet used for?
This medicine is a targeted therapy for EGFR-mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer. It works by blocking the EGFR protein to slow cancer growth. It is taken as a 250 mg tablet once daily.
- Generic Name: Gefitinib
- Manufacturer: Neon Laboratories Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 chemogef 250mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा मुख्य रूप से उन फेफड़ों के कैंसर (नॉन-स्मॉल सेल लंग कैंसर) के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है जिनमें EGFR जीन में विशेष म्यूटेशन पाया जाता है। यह एक टार्गेटेड थेरेपी है जो कैंसर कोशिकाओं की वृद्धि को रोकती है। इसका उपयोग डॉक्टर की सलाह और जांच के बाद ही किया जाता है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में त्वचा पर दाने, मुँहासे जैसे लाल चकत्ते, दस्त, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, मुँह के छाले, थकान और आँखों में जलन शामिल हैं। कुछ गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव भी हो सकते हैं जैसे फेफड़ों में सूजन, लिवर की समस्या, और त्वचा पर गंभीर प्रतिक्रियाएँ। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें, रोज एक ही समय पर। इसे पानी के साथ पूरा निगलें, चबाएं नहीं। अंगूर और अंगूर के जूस से बचें। गर्भावस्था और स्तनपान के दौरान इसका इस्तेमाल न करें। धूप से बचाव करें और सनस्क्रीन लगाएं। नियमित रूप से लिवर की जांच कराएं। कोई भी नई दिक्कत होने पर डॉक्टर को बताएं।
💊 chemogef 250mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"EGFR-mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (first-line)","description":"Used as first-line therapy in patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC whose tumours have activating EGFR mutations (such as exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R substitution).","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Previously treated non-small cell lung cancer","description":"Used in patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC who have received prior chemotherapy and whose tumours harbour EGFR mutations.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Other EGFR-mutated solid tumours","description":"Occasionally used off-label in certain other cancers with EGFR alterations, but evidence is limited and decisions are made case by case.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: EGFR-mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer
Also treats: Previously treated non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutations
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Gefitinib |
| Brand Name | Adgef 250 Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Neon Laboratories Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Tyrosine kinase inhibitors |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F) in the original container. Protect from moisture and heat. Do not refrigerate unless specified. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | Typically 24 months from the date of manufacture, but refer to the expiry date printed on the pack. Do not use after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine is a selective inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase. By binding reversibly to the ATP-binding site of the EGFR kinase domain, it blocks autophosphorylation and downstream signalling through pathways such as MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and STAT, which are involved in cancer cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis. In tumours with activating EGFR mutations, the mutant receptor is more dependent on this signalling, making the cancer cells more sensitive to the inhibitory effect of this medicine. This leads to reduced tumour cell growth and increased apoptosis.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take chemogef 250mg tablet
Strength: Immediate-release oral tablet containing 250 mg of gefitinib.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 250 mg taken orally once daily, with or without food, until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. Dose adjustments may be necessary for severe adverse reactions or drug interactions. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and concomitant medications. Do not self-adjust the dose. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist for guidance. |
| Elderly Dosage | No specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients based on age alone. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to certain side effects and should be monitored closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | No dose adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. There are limited data in patients with severe renal impairment; use with caution and monitor closely. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C), this medicine should be used with caution and dose reduction may be considered. In patients with moderate hepatic impairment, no initial dose adjustment is required, but monitoring is advised. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose is 250 mg. Do not exceed this dose without medical supervision. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of chemogef 250mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Rifampicin | Major | |
| Ketoconazole | Major | |
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Omeprazole | Moderate | |
| Ranitidine | Moderate | |
| Metoprolol | Moderate | |
| St. John's wort | Major | |
| Phenytoin | Major | |
| Carbamazepine | Major | |
| Itraconazole | Major |
🚨 Major Interactions
- CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, St. John's wort)
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir)
- Warfarin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole)
- H2 receptor antagonists (e.g., ranitidine)
- CYP2D6 substrates (e.g., metoprolol)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol is not known to interact directly with this medicine, but it can worsen liver stress and dehydration, especially if you have diarrhoea or are taking other medications. It is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol during treatment, and to discuss any alcohol use with your oncologist.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known severe hypersensitivity to gefitinib or any component of the formulation","Pregnancy and breastfeeding","Severe hepatic impairment","Use in patients without confirmed EGFR mutation for first-line NSCLC (unless otherwise directed by oncologist)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Interstitial lung disease (ILD) has been reported in patients taking this medicine; it can be fatal. Withhold treatment and investigate promptly if ILD is suspected.","Severe liver injury can occur; monitor liver function regularly and interrupt treatment if significant changes occur.","Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have been reported; discontinue if suspected.","Gastrointestinal perforation has been reported; seek immediate medical attention for severe abdominal pain.","Eye disorders including corneal erosion and abnormal eyelash growth may occur; refer to an ophthalmologist if symptoms develop.","This medicine may interact with many drugs; always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.","Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment.","Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least a few weeks after the last dose.","Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.","This medicine is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment and for at least a few weeks after the last dose. Consult your doctor for guidance.
💊 Overdose Management
There is no specific antidote for overdose with this medicine. In case of suspected overdose, stop the medicine and seek immediate medical attention. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive, with close monitoring of vital signs and organ function. Gastric lavage may be considered if the overdose is recent and the patient is stable. Contact a poison control centre or emergency department for guidance.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. If it is less than 12 hours until your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. If you are unsure, contact your healthcare provider.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your oncologist, at the same time each day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it. Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while on this medicine, as they can increase drug levels and side effects. Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially acid-reducing agents, blood thinners, and drugs that affect liver enzymes. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least a few weeks after the last dose if you are of childbearing potential, and avoid breastfeeding while taking this medicine. Protect your skin from sunlight by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing, as this medicine can make your skin more sensitive to sunburn. Report any new or worsening symptoms, especially breathing difficulties, persistent diarrhoea, or skin rash, to your healthcare team without delay. Keep all scheduled appointments for blood tests and imaging, and store the tablets in their original packaging at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects such as diarrhoea, dehydration, and skin reactions. Close monitoring and supportive care are important. No specific dose adjustment is required based on age alone.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine may harm the unborn baby. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least a few weeks after the last dose. If you are planning pregnancy, consult your oncologist well in advance.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your surgeon and oncologist that you are taking this medicine. It may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery due to potential effects on wound healing and bleeding risk. Follow your doctor's instructions.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may affect healing and increase risk of bleeding or infection. Your dentist may recommend postponing elective procedures until your blood counts and overall condition are stable.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine may cause tiredness and diarrhoea, which can affect your ability to exercise. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities if you feel weak. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause tiredness, diarrhoea, and skin rash, which can affect your daily activities and work. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Discuss any work-related concerns with your healthcare team.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your oncologist. Treatment is usually continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. If you experience severe side effects, your doctor may temporarily interrupt or adjust the dose. Always seek medical advice before stopping.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may lead to chronic skin changes, diarrhoea, and rare but serious lung or liver problems. Regular monitoring of liver function, lung symptoms, and skin is essential. Some patients may develop resistance to the medicine over time, requiring a change in treatment. Discuss any new symptoms with your oncologist promptly.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Erlotinib, afatinib, or osimertinib may be alternatives based on mutation type and prior treatments.
Evidence: Well-establishedPlatinum-based chemotherapy may be used in some settings.
Evidence: Well-establishedMay be considered in eligible patients, but not typically first-line for EGFR-mutant NSCLC.
Evidence: Emerging💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with this medicine due to potential immune suppression. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but response may be reduced. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When travelling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. Store at room temperature and avoid direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, maintain your once-daily schedule as closely as possible; consult your doctor for specific advice. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines internationally.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Tumour response may take several weeks to become evident. Your doctor will assess response with imaging tests after about 6-8 weeks.
A: Yes, this medicine can be taken with or without food. However, avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double dose.
A: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as they can increase drug levels and side effects.
A: No, do not stop without consulting your doctor. Stopping early can lead to cancer progression.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for chemogef 250mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
gefires 250mg tabletResonance Laboratories Pvt Ltd ₹318.75 71.1% CHEAPER
-
fitnib 250mg tabletZen Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹450.00 59.2% CHEAPER
-
unigef 250mg tabletSamarth Life Sciences Pvt Ltd ₹1,341.00 21.7% COSTLIER
-
gefimipsa 250mg capsuleArk Life Sciences Pvt Ltd ₹1,396.88 26.8% COSTLIER
-
geftistar 250mg tabletLupin Ltd ₹1,465.00 32.9% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Gefitinib is a traditional chemotherapy that kills all fast-growing cells.
Fact: Gefitinib is a targeted therapy that specifically inhibits EGFR-mutant cancer cells, with a different side effect profile than traditional chemotherapy. - Myth: You can stop taking gefitinib once you feel better.
Fact: Gefitinib is usually continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Stopping early can lead to cancer growth. - Myth: Gefitinib works for all lung cancers.
Fact: It is only effective in lung cancers with specific EGFR mutations. Testing is required before use.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Gefitinib 250 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Iressa
- Geftinat
- Gefiter