Iressa® (gefitinib) tablets for EGFR‑mutated non–small cell lung cancer

What Iressa® Is and How It Works

Iressa® is the brand name for gefitinib, an oral epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It is used to treat adults with locally advanced or metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that tests positive for sensitizing EGFR mutations. Patients often compare Iressa price options, and many also search for Iressa no insurance support to manage costs. Iressa® blocks EGFR signaling that drives tumor growth and spread. This targeted action can shrink tumors and delay progression in EGFR-mutated NSCLC. Tablets are taken once daily and can be used long term if tolerated and effective.

YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy in Manitoba that meets Canadian pharmacy standards. Prescriptions are reviewed by licensed pharmacists before dispensing. We offer brand and generic medicines at Canadian prices, with online ordering and friendly customer-service chat during posted hours. To keep prices competitive, we also work with licensed, vetted international partner pharmacies to source authentic brands across a wide selection at fair pricing.

Dosage and Usage

The usual adult dose is 250 mg orally once daily, with or without food. Swallow tablets whole. For patients who cannot swallow whole tablets, dispersing a tablet in non-carbonated water may be considered per prescriber guidance.

• Start: 250 mg once daily. Do not increase dose unless directed by the treating specialist.
• Administration: take at the same time each day. Swallow whole with water. If dispersion is needed, stir the tablet in water until evenly mixed, drink, then rinse the glass and drink the rinse.
• Missed dose: if more than 12 hours remain until the next dose, take the missed dose. If less than 12 hours remain, skip the dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double doses.
• Acid-reducing agents: proton pump inhibitors can reduce gefitinib absorption and effectiveness. Separate antacids and H2 blockers by several hours, per clinician guidance.
• Drug interactions: strong CYP3A4 inducers (for example, rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, St. John’s wort) can lower levels. Potent inhibitors and grapefruit may increase exposure. Warfarin may require closer INR monitoring.
• Monitoring: clinicians often monitor liver enzymes, skin and eye symptoms, and pulmonary status.

• Storage: store at 15–30°C in the original container. Keep dry and away from excess heat.
• Travel: keep tablets in carry-on luggage, in original labeled packaging. Avoid extreme temperatures.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Benefits and Savings

Iressa® targets EGFR-mutated cancer cells and can improve response rates versus chemotherapy in the indicated population. Many patients see improved symptoms such as cough or dyspnea as tumors respond. Oral dosing at home reduces clinic time and may lower travel burden. Once-daily dosing helps with routine and adherence.

Ordering from YouDrugstore can offer 60–80% savings compared with typical US prices. Patients buying without insurance often find meaningful savings through Canadian pricing and periodic promotions. Licensed pharmacists review each prescription and are available to address medication questions.

Side Effects and Safety

Most side effects are skin or gastrointestinal related and are often manageable with supportive care and dose interruption if needed under the oncologist’s supervision. Serious reactions can occur and need urgent medical attention.

• Common: diarrhea, rash or acneiform eruption, dry skin, itching, mouth sores, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, conjunctivitis, and nail changes such as paronychia.
• Liver: increased liver enzymes and, rarely, severe hepatotoxicity. Healthcare providers may monitor ALT/AST and bilirubin.
• Pulmonary: interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis can occur at any time. New or worsening shortness of breath, cough, or fever needs prompt evaluation.
• Eye: keratitis, corneal ulceration, and eye pain or redness. Visual changes require assessment.
• Skin: severe or blistering rash, Stevens–Johnson syndrome, photosensitivity. Protect skin from sun exposure.
• Cardiac/QT: QT prolongation is uncommon but possible, especially with risk factors or interacting drugs.
• GI: rare gastrointestinal perforation has been reported.

Pregnancy must be avoided. Gefitinib can harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is advised during treatment and for at least two weeks after the last dose. Breastfeeding is not recommended during therapy.

Onset Time

Clinical improvement, such as reduced cough or better breathing, may begin within one to two weeks for responders. Radiographic responses are often assessed at 6–8 weeks. Time to response varies by tumor burden, mutation profile, and overall health. Continue as directed unless disease progresses or toxicity becomes unacceptable.

Compare With Alternatives

Other EGFR inhibitors include erlotinib, afatinib, and osimertinib. Afatinib is an irreversible blocker of EGFR and related receptors and may have higher rates of diarrhea and rash but can be effective in certain mutations. Erlotinib is another first-generation agent with similar activity and a comparable side-effect profile.

Osimertinib is often used first line or after resistance develops, especially with T790M mutations, and has improved central nervous system penetration. Choice depends on mutation subtype, prior therapy, tolerability, brain metastases, and access.

YouDrugstore also carries other oncology therapies to support comprehensive care. For example, advanced prostate cancer may be treated with Zytiga®, and FLT3-mutated AML may use Xospata®, as prescribed by specialists.

Combination Therapy

Iressa® is commonly used as monotherapy for EGFR-mutated NSCLC. It is not usually combined with cytotoxic chemotherapy at initiation. Supportive medications such as antidiarrheals, topical steroids, and urea-based skin care may help manage side effects under clinical guidance. Acid reducers can reduce efficacy and need careful timing or alternatives. Radiation or local therapies may be used for symptom control or oligoprogression at the oncology team’s discretion.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Iressa® suits adults with confirmed sensitizing EGFR mutations in NSCLC. It is not approved in children. Caution is warranted in patients with significant liver disease, prior interstitial lung disease, or serious eye conditions. Strong smoking status effects are less pronounced than with some agents, but smoking cessation remains important for lung health. Cost planning matters for patients paying Iressa out of pocket.

Cost-saving ideas include multi-month supplies when appropriate, which can lower the per-month cost, and reorder reminders to avoid rushed buys. Brand and generic options may be available based on market supply. For broader education about oncology, see our Cancer resources, and read practical tips in Common Darzalex Side Effects And Tips To Manage Them and background on targeted therapy in Understanding Calquence Medication For Cancer Treatment.

Iressa coupons are posted on our promotions page for current offers and bulk options.

Authoritative Sources

Review official details in the AstraZeneca Iressa Prescribing Information, the Health Canada Drug Product Database: Iressa, and the FDA Label for Gefitinib.

Ready to proceed? YouDrugstore’s team supports your order with caring service and secure dispensing. Order online or by phone where available, and we will ship with prompt, express shipping to the US.

This content is educational and does not replace your clinician’s advice. Use Iressa® only as prescribed. Seek urgent care for signs of severe reaction, breathing trouble, or allergic symptoms.