Erlonat 150 mg contains Erlotinib, an oral targeted cancer therapy that belongs to a class of medicines known as EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).
It is primarily used to treat certain types of lung and pancreatic cancers, especially when specific genetic mutations make the tumour sensitive to this targeted approach.
Taken as a daily tablet, Erlonat allows patients to continue cancer treatment at home under close oncologist supervision.

Mechanism of Action

Erlotinib specifically targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway:

• Many cancer cells have mutations or overactivity of EGFR, a protein on the cell surface that signals them to grow and divide uncontrollably.

• Erlotinib blocks the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR, preventing it from transmitting growth signals.

• This stops cancer cells from proliferating and can also trigger their death (apoptosis)

  Uses / Indications

  Erlonat is used in the treatment of:

  • Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC):

    • As first-line treatment in patients whose tumours have EGFR activating mutations (like exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R substitution mutations).

    • As maintenance therapy after initial chemotherapy, or

    • In previously treated advanced disease.

  • Pancreatic cancer:

    • Used in combination with gemcitabine in advanced or metastatic cases.

      Adverse Effects

      Because erlotinib works on the EGFR pathway, which is also important in normal skin and gut lining cells, its side effects are often predictable.

      Common side effects include:

      • Skin rash (acne-like), dry skin, itching – usually a sign that the drug is working, but sometimes needing topical or oral treatment.

      • Diarrhoea and mild nausea.

      • Loss of appetite and fatigue.