Osimertinib (Tagrisso)

Taking Osimertinib as instructed is essential for your treatment to be as effective as possible. Please keep the following points in mind:

• Your dose may vary, but the usual dose of Osimertinib is 80 milligrams, to be taken by mouth at a scheduled time once a day for 4 weeks.
• Osimertinib can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken at the same time each day.
• Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush, cut, or dissolve them. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablets, speak with your doctor about possible alternatives.
• If you miss a dose of Osimertinib, do not take an extra dose or two doses at once. Simply take your next dose at the regular time.
• Keep a record of missed doses and inform your doctor about any missed doses during your next visit.

If you need surgery, inform your doctor that you are taking Osimertinib, as it may need to be paused until your wound has healed following some procedures.

• Osimertinib interacts with many drugs. Inform your doctor about all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking.
• Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medications or supplements, or before receiving any vaccines.

• Handle Osimertinib with care. Like chemotherapy administered intravenously, this drug can be toxic, so minimise exposure to others.
• Store Osimertinib at room temperature (below 25°C) in a dry place away from light.
• Keep Osimertinib out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep the tablets in their original packaging until you are ready to take them.
• Whenever possible, administer Osimertinib yourself.
• If a family member, friend, or caregiver needs to administer Osimertinib to you, they should wear gloves when handling the tablets.
• Take the medicine immediately by mouth with water.
• If you have any unused Osimertinib, do not throw it in the trash or flush it down the toilet. Bring any unused medication back to the practice for proper disposal.
• When travelling, place the packaging in a sealed plastic bag. Ask your pharmacist if any additional precautions are needed for travelling with Osimertinib.

Common side effects occur in approximately one third of patients taking Osimertinib. However, please note that you may not experience these side effects.

Infections:

• Watch for signs such as fever (above 38°C), chills, sore throat, or painful urination.

Fatigue:

• You may feel more tired than usual. Try to get 7–8 hours of sleep each night, maintain a balance between work and rest, and stay active but rest when needed.

Low Haemoglobin:

• If you feel tired or experience shortness of breath, dizziness, or palpitations, inform us immediately.

Low Platelets:

• You may bruise or bleed more easily. Contact us if bleeding does not stop (e.g., bleeding nose or gums, cuts that ooze).

Diarrhoea:

• Drink 8–10 glasses of water each day unless your doctor advises otherwise. Eat small, frequent meals, and avoid high-fibre foods and those that cause gas or bloating.

Rash or Itchy Skin:

• Keep your skin moisturised and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear loose-fitting clothes, apply sunscreen (at least SPF 30), and avoid using perfume or cologne that could worsen your symptoms.

If your rash worsens or itching persists, contact your doctor.

Osimertinib remains in your body for several days after taking it, so traces of the drug may be present in urine, stool, sweat, or vomit. To keep yourself, your loved ones, and the environment safe, follow these precautions:

• Pregnant women should avoid contact with anything that may be soiled with body fluids from the patient.
• Use the same toilet as usual, but always flush twice and close the lid to ensure all waste is disposed of.
• If body waste soaks toilet surfaces, clean them before anyone else uses the toilet.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet.
• If using a bedpan, ensure the caregiver wears gloves to assist with cleanup and wash the bedpan daily with soap and water.
• If you lack control of bladder or bowels, use a disposable pad, diaper, or absorbent sheet.
• Wash any exposed skin with soap and water after contact with body waste or Osimertinib.
• Wash soiled linens or clothing separately from other laundry and wash your hands after handling them.

• Women should not become pregnant, and men should not father a child while taking Osimertinib.
• Both men and women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 weeks after the last dose of Osimertinib.
• Do not breastfeed while taking Osimertinib or for 2 weeks after the last dose.
• If you become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.