Iressa contains Gefitinib, which is a targeted cancer medicine.
It is mainly used for certain types of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer – NSCLC) that have specific EGFR mutations.

Mechanism 

• Some lung cancer cells have too much activity of a protein called EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor), which makes them grow and multiply.

• Gefitinib blocks EGFR activity.

• This slows down or stops cancer cell growth and helps control the disease.

  Uses

  • Treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with EGFR mutations

  • Often used as first-line therapy in patients tested positive for EGFR mutations

    Adverse Effects 

    Common side effects:

    • Diarrhea

    • Skin rash, dryness, itching

    • Loss of appetite

    • Nausea, vomiting

    • Weakness, tiredness