Afatinib tablets are used to treat specific types of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with certain EGFR mutations, acting as a first-line therapy or for squamous NSCLC after platinum-based chemo, by inhibiting tyrosine kinase to stop cancer cell growth. It's a targeted therapy taken orally on an empty stomach, slowing cancer spread but requiring strict medical supervision due to potential severe side effects like diarrhea, skin issues, and mouth sores. 

Primary Uses

• Metastatic NSCLC: For adults with NSCLC that has spread, specifically with common EGFR mutations (like exon 19 deletions or exon 21 substitutions).

• Squamous NSCLC: For patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC that progressed after platinum-based chemotherapy. 

How it Works (Mechanism)

• It's a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that blocks EGFR and related receptors (HER2, HER4).

• This stops the signaling pathways that promote cancer cell growth and multiplication, slowing or halting the spread of cancer. 

Administration

• Oral: Taken by mouth, usually once daily.

• On an Empty Stomach: At least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.