Prescription Required | Strength: 40 mg | Manufacturer: Drug International Ltd.
Summary:
Facing a diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) changes everything. You need a treatment that targets the problem at its source. Anib 40mg is a targeted therapy designed to fight specific types of lung cancer by locking onto the growth signals in cancer cells and shutting them down.
ToC
What is Anib 40mg?
Anib 40mg contains the active ingredient Afatinib. It belongs to a class of drugs known as Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs).
Doctors prescribe Anib mainly for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It works best when the cancer cells have specific genetic changes – known as EGFR mutations.
While traditional chemotherapy works by attacking all fast-growing cells (causing widespread side effects), Anib is a “smart pro drug.” It specifically targets proteins on the surface of cancer cells that trigger tumor growth.
| Feature |
Details |
| Brand Name | Anib |
| Generic Name | Afatinib |
| Strength | 40 mg (Also available in other strengths) |
| Drug Class | Irreversible ErbB Family Blocker / TKI |
| Therapeutic Class | Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (Antineoplastic) |
| Form | Oral Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Drug International Ltd. |
| Primary Use | EGFR-mutation positive NSCLC |
| Administration | Oral Tablet (Once Daily) |
| Storage | Below 30°C, away from light. |
| Prescription Status | Prescription Required (Rx Only) |
| Price | $90.00 |
| Exported By | Unitpharmacy (Online Pharmacy) |
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Mechanism of Action: How It Works?
To understand how Anib 40mg helps, imagine a light switch stuck in the “ON” position.
In certain lung cancers, a protein called EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) acts like this stuck switch. It constantly sends signals telling cancer cells to multiply.
Anib (Afatinib) works differently than older drugs in this class:
It Binds Permanently: Unlike some drugs that attach and detach, Anib attaches irreversibly to the receptor (EGFR, HER2, and HER4).
It Blocks the Signal: By chemically bonding to the receptor, it physically blocks the signal pathway.
It Stops Growth: This turns the switch “OFF,” preventing the tumor from growing and often causing it to shrink.
Key Difference: Because Anib binds permanently (covalent binding), its effects can be more durable than reversible inhibitors like Gefitinib or Erlotinib.
Indications: Who Is This For?
Your oncologist will prescribe Anib 40mg based on genetic testing of your tumor. It is not for every type of lung cancer. It works mainly when the tumor carries specific EGFR mutations. Here are the common approved uses:
- First-line treatment for metastatic NSCLC in patients whose tumors test positive for eligible EGFR mutations (like Exon 19 deletion or Exon 21 L858R).
- Second-line or later treatment for EGFR-mutation–positive NSCLC if prior chemotherapy was used (particularly if platinum-based chemo did not succeed).
- In some countries / settings: treatment for metastatic squamous NSCLC — especially when disease progresses after platinum-based chemotherapy.
Important caveat: Safety and benefit of Anib are established mainly when cancer has sensitive (non-resistant) EGFR mutations. If the tumor carries resistant mutations (e.g. some uncommon or T790M-type mutations), effectiveness may be limited. Always confirm mutation type with a reliable test before starting therapy.
Dosage & Administration Guide
Standard dose: 40 mg orally, once daily.
How to take: On empty stomach. Take at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Food can alter drug absorption.
If you miss a dose: Follow the standard rule from prescribing information: if next dose is more than 12 hours away, take missed dose as soon as you remember; if less than 12 hours remain, skip. (Avoid doubling up.)
Dose adjustments:
- For patients with severe kidney problems: dose may be reduced to 30 mg/day.
- If serious side effects occur (see below), your doctor may pause treatment until symptoms resolve, then resume at a lower dose (e.g. 10 mg less than previous dose) per local prescribing guidance.
Real-World & Clinical Evidence: What Studies Show?
Large trials and real-world studies confirm that Afatinib (40 mg daily) delivers meaningful clinical benefit for many patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC. Key findings:
| Study / Meta-Analysis | Key Findings (40 mg/day) |
| Phase III (first-line) trials | Improved progression-free survival (PFS) and response rates compared to chemotherapy in EGFR-m+ NSCLC |
| Phase 3b “real-world” trial (479 patients) | Objective response rate (ORR): ~45.5%. Median PFS: 13.4 months overall; 15.9 months in patients with exon 19 deletions. |
| Phase IV (after chemo) study (60 patients) | 50% had confirmed tumor response. Median PFS: 10.9 months. Duration of response: ~13.8 months. |
| Meta-analysis of 25 real-world studies (all lines) | Overall response rate (ORR) ~58.9%; disease control rate (DCR) ~87.6%. Pooled median PFS ~12.4 months, median overall survival (OS) ~31.6 months. |
Takeaway: For patients with the right EGFR mutation, Anib 40mg often leads to tumor shrinkage, disease stabilization, and meaningful progression-free survival.
Anib vs. Chemotherapy: A Comparison
Why choose Anib over chemo?
Because Anib targets cancer cells more precisely. That often means fewer effects on healthy cells. Many patients tolerate it better than traditional chemotherapy, while still getting strong anti-cancer effect.
| Feature | Anib 40mg (Targeted Therapy) | Traditional Chemotherapy |
| Target | Specific cancer cells (EGFR mutated) | All fast-growing cells (cancer + healthy) |
| Administration | Oral Tablet (At home) | IV Drip (Hospital visits required) |
| Hair Loss | Rare (usually thinning/texture change) | Common (Alopecia) |
| Main Side Effects | Rash, Diarrhea | Nausea, Vomiting, Low Immunity |
| Efficacy | Higher response rate in EGFR+ patients | Lower response rate for this specific group |
Comparing Anib vs. Other EGFR-TKIs
| Feature | Anib 40mg (Afatinib) | First-generation EGFR-TKIs (e.g. Gefitinib, Erlotinib) |
| Target | Specific mutated EGFR / ErbB receptors | EGFR (reversible TKIs) |
| Administration | Oral tablet at home | Oral tablet |
| Efficacy in EGFR-mutant NSCLC | High ORR, significant PFS benefit vs chemo in many trials | Good activity especially in first-/second-generation TKIs; sometimes less potent than afatinib in some patients |
| Side-effects / toxicity | High incidence of diarrhea, rash, mucositis; manageable with dose reduction/ interruption | Generally milder cutaneous/GI toxicity compared to afatinib, but drug resistance may develop |
| Quality of life / convenience | High (oral, home-based) | Good (oral) |
Why choose Anib over first-gen EGFR-TKIs?
For some patients (especially with certain EGFR mutations), afatinib may offer better tumor control, more durable response, and longer progression-free survival. Real-world meta-analyses show good ORR and survival figures.
Why might doctors reduce dose (e.g. 30 mg)?
Because severe adverse events (especially diarrhea, rash) can impair quality of life. Some studies suggest a lower starting dose (30 mg) may lead to acceptable tolerability with only modest impact on effectiveness.
Side Effects: What to Expect & How to Manage Them
Because Anib 40mg is powerful, side effects are common. However, they are usually manageable with a proactive approach. Some may require dose adjustment or discontinuation. Here’s a breakdown based on large trials and real-world data.
1. Diarrhea (Very Common)
This affects nearly 96% of patients. It usually starts within the first 2 weeks.
Management:
Diet: Avoid spicy, greasy, or high-fiber foods. Stick to the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast).
Hydration: Drink 2-3 liters of water/electrolytes daily.
Medicine: Keep Loperamide (Imodium) on hand. Start taking it at the first sign of loose stools. Do not wait.
2. Acneiform Rash / Skin Eruptions
This looks like acne but is actually inflammation. It typically appears on the face, chest, and back.
Management:
Sun Protection: Sunlight makes the rash worse. Wear sunscreen (SPF 50+) and hats.
Moisturize: Use alcohol-free, fragrance-free creams (emollients) twice daily.
Avoid: Harsh soaps or anti-acne products (like benzoyl peroxide)—these will dry your skin out further.
Other Common Effects:
Paronychia: Painful infection around the fingernails. Soaking fingers in a diluted vinegar-water solution can help.
Stomatitis: Mouth sores. Avoid acidic foods (citrus/tomatoes) and use a soft toothbrush.
Treatment discontinuation: some patients stop therapy due to toxicity. In trials, dose reductions were frequent (e.g. 54% in one real-world study) and ~8% permanently stopped due to adverse events.
Laboratory abnormalities: liver enzyme elevations (AST, ALT), decreased kidney function, changes in blood counts noted in trials.
*Frequency reflects aggregated data from trials and real-world studies of Afatinib at 40 mg daily.
Warnings & Precautions
Before starting Anib 40mg, be aware of these serious (though rarer) risks.
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
What is it? severe inflammation of the lungs.
Symptoms: Sudden difficulty breathing, new cough, or fever.
Action: Stop the drug and go to the ER immediately. ILD can be fatal if ignored.
Keratitis (Eye Inflammation)
Symptoms: Eye pain, redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light.
Tip: If you wear contact lenses and develop eye issues, switch to glasses and see an ophthalmologist.
Heart Function
Note: Recent safety signals (2024) suggest a rare risk of cardiac failure. Your doctor may monitor your heart function (LVEF) if you have a history of heart issues.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Anib can harm an unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose. Do not breastfeed while on this medication.
Practical Patient Tips: Symptom Management & When to Call Your Doctor
Taking Anib is not just about swallowing a pill. Careful attention can help you stay on track and reduce side effect impact.
- Take on empty stomach. At least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.
- Hydrate well. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Keep water and electrolyte drinks ready.
- Have antidiarrheal medicine (e.g. loperamide) at home. Start it at first loose stool, as advised by your doctor.
- Use gentle skin care. Mild soap, fragrance-free moisturizer, avoid harsh creams. Wear sunscreen and protective clothes if outdoors — skin rash can worsen with sun exposure.
- Take care of nails and skin around nails. Soak hands/feet in warm water, dry gently, moisturize. Watch for signs of infection (redness, pus, pain) — nail-related issues (paronychia) are common.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Mouth sores (stomatitis) may occur. Use soft toothbrush, rinse your mouth gently, avoid irritating foods.
- Monitor for warning signs: severe/persistent diarrhea, dehydration, unexpected weight loss, skin blistering/peeling, new cough or breathing difficulty – especially in rare risk of lung inflammation (interstitial lung disease). Contact your oncology team immediately.
Price & Availability
Anib 40mg is manufactured by Drug International Ltd., making it a cost-effective alternative to imported brands like Gilotrif. UnitPharmacygDotCom is an online pharmacy that exports this generics at just $90.00 per 30 tablets.
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(Please consult the current listing price above or contact our support for the latest MRP).
Patients without insurance may ask about financial assistance programs, patient support schemes, or generic alternatives – especially generics – to reduce cost. Always confirm authenticity and regulatory approval before purchase.
Anib 40mg is prescription-only. That means you need a valid oncology prescription from a licensed doctor to obtain it. Many cancer-specialty pharmacies or oncology centers carry supplies.
Conclusion
Anib 40mg (Afatinib) represents a major advancement in the fight against NSCLC. For patients with the right EGFR mutation, it offers a targeted, oral option with the potential for tumor reduction, disease control, and improved quality of life compared to traditional chemotherapy.
If you or a loved one are considering Anib: talk to your oncologist. Confirm EGFR mutation status through a valid test. Understand the risks and common side effects. Prepare for proactive side-effect management. And – if your doctor agrees – consider filling your prescription at a trusted oncology pharmacy.
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FAQ
- What happens if I miss a dose of Anib 40mg?
Ans: If you miss a dose and the next scheduled dose is more than 12 hours away, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s within 12 hours of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up doses.
- Can I split or crush the Anib 40mg tablet to swallow?
Ans: No. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water. Splitting, crushing, or chewing the tablet may affect how the medicine releases in your body.
- How long does it take for Anib 40mg to work?
Ans: Response times vary by patient. Many patients show symptom improvement (less cough, less pain) within a few weeks. Tumor shrinkage is usually assessed by imaging (e.g. CT scan) every 8–12 weeks.
- Is Anib 40mg safe for my liver?
Ans: Anib is processed by the body but can occasionally cause liver enzyme elevation. Your doctor will perform regular blood tests (LFTs) to monitor your liver health. If you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, contact your doctor.
- What happens if Anib 40mg stops working?
Ans: Eventually, cancer cells may develop resistance (often via the T790M mutation). If this happens, your doctor may switch you to a “Third-Generation” EGFR inhibitor (like Osimertinib) which is designed to overcome this resistance.
- Why do I have to avoid sunlight while taking Anib?
Ans: Anib causes photosensitivity. Exposure to UV rays can trigger or worsen the severe skin rash associated with the drug. Always use sunscreen and protective clothing, even on cloudy days.
- Is dose reduction safe? Will lowering from Anib 40mg to 30mg reduce effectiveness?
Ans: Dose reduction is common if side effects are strong. Real-world data show that lower doses can still control disease. While some studies report slightly lower response rates at lower doses, many patients maintain good disease control with better tolerability.
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your registered oncologist for diagnosis and treatment plans. Prices and availability are subject to change. Please contact our support for the latest MRP.
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Miraz Hossain Khan, Full-Stack SEO Expert , and Author of Digital Health & Wellness