Lapatinib

Lapatinib is a medication that is used for treating HER2-positive breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It is specifically prescribed for people who have not responded to other treatments. The tablets, which are used in combination with another chemotherapy medicine, are generally taken once daily. Side effects may include vomiting, rash, and diarrhea.

Lapatinib for Breast Cancer

What Is Lapatinib?

Lapatinib (Tykerb^®) is a prescription medication used to treat breast cancer. It is used in combination with capecitabine (Xeloda^®), a chemotherapy medication. Unlike many cancer medications, both lapatinib and capecitabine are taken by mouth, not by IV (intravenously). It is used to treat a certain type of breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and has not responded to other treatments.

(Click What Is Lapatinib Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with lapatinib. However, not everyone who takes the drug will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.

Common side effects of lapatinib, include but are not limited to:

Diarrhea
Anemia
Hand-and-foot syndrome (redness and tenderness of the palms and soles)
Nausea
Rash
Vomiting
Insomnia (see Tykerb and Insomnia).

(Click Side Effects of Lapatinib for more information.)

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