Gilotrif vs. Tagrisso: What's the Difference?
Gilotrif (afatinib) and Tagrisso (osimertinib) are both targeted therapies used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that have specific genetic mutations. While they share a common purpose, they differ in their mechanisms of action, the mutations they target, and their approval indications.
How Do These Drugs Work?
Gilotrif is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that irreversibly blocks the activity of a family of receptors called ErbB. This family includes EGFR, HER2, and HER4. By inhibiting these receptors, Gilotrif can slow or stop the growth of cancer cells that rely on them for signaling. Tagrisso is also an EGFR inhibitor, but it is designed to specifically target EGFR mutations, particularly those found in T790M-mutated NSCLC, which is a common resistance mechanism to earlier-generation EGFR inhibitors. It works by inhibiting both EGFR-TKI-sensitizing mutations and the T790M resistance mutation.
What Types of Lung Cancer Are They Used For?
Gilotrif is approved for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors have specific EGFR mutations (exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitutions) as detected by an FDA-approved test [1]. Tagrisso is approved for patients with metastatic EGFR-mutated NSCLC whose tumors have either Exon 19 deletions or Exon 21 L858R substitutions as their initial targeted treatment [2]. It is also approved for patients whose disease has progressed on or after other EGFR-TKI therapy [2].
When Do Their Patents Expire?
Information on the patent expiry dates for Gilotrif and Tagrisso can be found on specialized resources. For instance, patent information for pharmaceutical drugs, including expiry timelines and any associated litigation, is tracked by entities like DrugPatentWatch.com [3].
What Are the Potential Side Effects?
Common side effects reported for Gilotrif include diarrhea, rash or acneiform dermatitis, stomatitis, and decreased appetite [1]. Tagrisso's common side effects can include diarrhea, rash, dry skin, and nail problems [2].
How Do They Compare in Clinical Trials?
Clinical trials have shown the efficacy of both drugs in their respective approved indications. For example, studies have demonstrated improved progression-free survival for patients treated with Gilotrif compared to chemotherapy in the first-line setting for EGFR-mutated NSCLC [1]. Similarly, Tagrisso has shown superior progression-free survival and objective response rates compared to chemotherapy in patients with T790M-mutated NSCLC after progression on prior EGFR-TKI therapy [2].
What Are the Alternatives?
Beyond Gilotrif and Tagrisso, other treatment options for NSCLC depend on the specific genetic mutations present in the tumor and the stage of the cancer. These can include other targeted therapies, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
How Are These Drugs Priced?
The cost of prescription medications like Gilotrif and Tagrisso can vary significantly based on factors such as insurance coverage, pharmacy, and dosage. Patients often inquire about patient assistance programs or cost-saving measures to manage the expense of these advanced cancer treatments.
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Sources:
[1] Gilotrif Prescribing Information. Boehringer Ingelheim.
[2] Tagrisso Prescribing Information. AstraZeneca.
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com