Iressa and Alcohol Interaction
Iressa and Alcohol
Iressa generic name gefitinib belongs to the family of cancer chemotherapy medication which works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body. It is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.
The drug should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who is experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
It is suggested that you don consume alcohol while using this drug as it can greatly increase the side effects.
At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.
If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.
If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.
Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.
Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.
When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.
It is suggested that before taking this or any other drug you have a frank and honest discussion with your physician as to your drinking habits. This may be difficult as many alcoholics are in a state of denial as to their drinking habits.
I have also noticed that many alcoholics are not subject to the morning after illness that most of us suffer through when we drink too much. Severe alcoholics usually find if they feel “shakey” in the morning, a drink will make them feel more normal.
Before using this drug advise your physician if you are pregnant, plan to be so, are breast feeding, are allergic to this or any other drug or substance, have liver disease, lung or breathing problems other than lung cancer.
Side Effects
Less serious side effects are mild to moderate nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, skin rash, dryness, itching, acne or weakness. If these occur call your physician for advice.
Serious side effects are severe allergic reaction such as hives, difficult breathing, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, tongue or face, lung problems such as difficult breathing, short of breath, increased coughing, fever or chest pain, severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, skin rash, dryness, itching, acne or weakness.
This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.
Iressa and alcohol Iressa and alcohol
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