Targeted cancer therapy (EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Osimertinib (sold as Tagrisso in Nigeria) is a targeted cancer medicine that works by blocking a specific abnormal protein (called EGFR) found on some cancer cells, which stops the cancer from growing and spreading.
Binds irreversibly to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase domain, including common activating mutations and the T790M resistance mutation, thereby blocking downstream signaling pathways (PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK) that promote cancer cell proliferation and survival in NSCLC.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
The usual dose is one 80 mg tablet taken once a day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water at about the same time each day. If you have difficulty swallowing, you can dissolve the tablet in plain water (not fizzy drinks). This is a long-term medication — keep taking it for as long as your cancer doctor tells you to.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless your next dose is due in less than 12 hours. In that case, skip the missed dose and take the next one at your normal time. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for a missed dose.
This is an expensive, specialised cancer drug — only buy from trusted hospital pharmacies or certified suppliers, never from roadside or unverified online sellers. Do not stop taking it or change your dose without your cancer doctor's approval. If you develop any new cough, breathing difficulty, or fever while on this drug, report to your doctor immediately as it could be a serious lung reaction.
Drugs like rifampicin (commonly used for TB treatment in Nigeria) can reduce how well osimertinib works — tell your doctor if you are on TB medication. Certain seizure drugs like carbamazepine and phenytoin can also reduce its effectiveness. St. John's wort (a herbal supplement) should be avoided while on this medicine.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Osimertinib with your other drugs?
Osimertinib is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can harm an unborn baby, so women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least two months after stopping.
Store at room temperature below 30°C in the original packaging. Keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture — avoid storing in the bathroom or kitchen. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Osimertinib?
Clinical tools built for Nigerian pharmacists — launching soon.