Tyverb

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ANNEX I 

 

SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS 



 

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1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 

Tyverb 250 mg film-coated tablets 

 

 

2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION 
 

Each film-coated tablet contains lapatinib ditosylate monohydrate, equivalent to 250 mg lapatinib. 

 

For the full list of excipients, see section 6.1. 

 

 

3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM 
 

Film-coated tablet (tablet). 

 

Oval, biconvex, yellow film-coated tablets, with “GS XJG” debossed on one side. 

 

 

4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS 
 

4.1 Therapeutic indications 
 

Tyverb is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with breast cancer, whose tumours overexpress 

HER2 (ErbB2); 

 

 in combination with capecitabine for patients with advanced or metastatic disease with 

progression following prior therapy, which must have included anthracyclines and taxanes and 

therapy with trastuzumab in the metastatic setting (see section 5.1). 

 

 in combination with trastuzumab for patients with hormone receptor-negative metastatic disease 

that has progressed on prior trastuzumab therapy(ies) in combination with chemotherapy (see 

section 5.1). 

 

 in combination with an aromatase inhibitor for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor 

positive metastatic disease, not currently intended for chemotherapy. The patients in the 

registration study were not previously treated with trastuzumab or an aromatase inhibitor (see 

sections 4.4. and 5.1). No data are available on the efficacy of this combination relative to 

trastuzumab in combination with an aromatase inhibitor in this patient population. 

 

4.2 Posology and method of administration 

 

Tyverb treatment should only be initiated by a physician experienced in the administration of 

anti-cancer medicinal products. 

 

HER2 (ErbB2) overexpressing tumours are defined by IHC3+, or IHC2+ with gene amplification or 

gene amplification alone. HER2 status should be determined using accurate and validated methods. 

 

Posology 

 

Tyverb / capecitabine combination posology 

 

The recommended dose of Tyverb is 1250 mg (i.e. five tablets) once daily continuously. 

 

The recommended dose of capecitabine is 2000 mg/m2/day taken in 2 doses 12 hours apart on 

days 1-14 in a 21 day cycle (see section 5.1). Capecitabine should be taken with food or within 

30 minutes after food. Please refer to the full prescribing information of capecitabine. 



 

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Tyverb / trastuzumab combination posology 

 

The recommended dose of Tyverb is 1000 mg (i.e. four tablets) once daily continuously. 

 

The recommended dose of trastuzumab is 4 mg/kg administered as an intravenous loading dose, 

followed by 2 mg/kg intravenous weekly (see section 5.1). Please refer to the full prescribing 

information of trastuzumab. 

 

Tyverb / aromatase inhibitor combination posology 

 

The recommended dose of Tyverb is 1500 mg (i.e. six tablets) once daily continuously. 

 

Please refer to the full prescribing information of the co-administered aromatase inhibitor for dosing 

details. 

 

Dose delay and dose reduction 

 

Cardiac events 

 

Tyverb should be discontinued in patients with symptoms associated with decreased left ventricular 

ejection fraction (LVEF) that are National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse 

Events (NCI CTCAE) grade 3 or greater or if their LVEF drops below the institutions lower limit of 

normal (see section 4.4). Tyverb may be restarted at a reduced dose (750 mg/day when administered 

with trastuzumab, 1000 mg/day when administered with capecitabine or 1250 mg/day when 

administered with an aromatase inhibitor) after a minimum of 2 weeks and if the LVEF recovers to 

normal and the patient is asymptomatic. 

 

Interstitial lung disease / pneumonitis 

 

Tyverb should be discontinued in patients who experience pulmonary symptoms which are NCI 

CTCAE grade 3 or greater (see section 4.4). 

 

Diarrhoea 

 

Tyverb dosing should be interrupted in patients with diarrhoea which is NCI CTCAE grade 3 or 

grade 1 or 2 with complicating features (moderate to severe abdominal cramping, nausea or vomiting 

greater than or equal to NCI CTCAE grade 2, decreased performance status, fever, sepsis, neutropenia, 

frank bleeding or dehydration) (see sections 4.4 and 4.8). Tyverb may be reintroduced at a lower dose 

(reduced from 1000 mg/day to 750 mg/day, from 1250 mg/day to 1000 mg/day or from 1500 mg/day 

to 1250 mg/day) when diarrhoea resolves to grade 1 or less. Tyverb dosing should be permanently 

discontinued in patients with diarrhoea which is NCI CTCAE grade 4. 

 

Other toxicities 

 

Discontinuation or interruption of dosing with Tyverb may be considered when a patient develops 

toxicity greater than or equal to grade 2 on the NCI CTCAE. Dosing can be restarted, when the 

toxicity improves to grade 1 or less, at 1000 mg/day when administered with trastuzumab, 

1250 mg/day when administered with capecitabine or 1500 mg/day when administered with an 

aromatase inhibitor. If the toxicity recurs, then Tyverb should be restarted at a lower dose (750 mg/day 

when administered with trastuzumab, 1000 mg/day when administered with capecitabine or 

1250 mg/day when administered with an aromatase inhibitor). 

 

Renal impairment 

 

No dose adjustment is necessary in patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. Caution is 

advised in patients with severe renal impairment as there is no experience of Tyverb in this population 

(see section 5.2). 



 

 4 

 

Hepatic impairment 

 

Tyverb should be discontinued if changes in liver function are severe and patients should not be 

retreated (see section 4.4). 

 

Administration of Tyverb to patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment should be 

undertaken with caution due to increased exposure to the medicinal product. Insufficient data are 

available in patients with hepatic impairment to provide a dose adjustment recommendation (see 

section 5.2). 

 

Elderly 

 

There are limited data on the use of Tyverb / capecitabine and Tyverb / trastuzumab in patients aged 

≥ 65 years. 

 

In the phase III clinical study of Tyverb in combination with letrozole, of the total number of hormone 

receptor positive metastatic breast cancer patients (Intent to treat population N= 642), 44 % were 

≥ 65 years of age. No overall differences in efficacy and safety of the combination of Tyverb and 

letrozole were observed between these patients and patients < 65 years of age. 

 

Paediatric population 

 

The safety and efficacy of Tyverb in children below the age of 18 years have not yet been established. 

No data are available. 

 

Method of administration 

 

Tyverb is for oral use. 

 

The daily dose of Tyverb should not be divided. Tyverb should be taken either at least one hour 

before, or at least one hour after food. To minimise variability in the individual patient, administration 

of Tyverb should be standardised in relation to food intake, for example always to be taken one hour 

before a meal (see sections 4.5 and 5.2 for information on absorption). 

 

Missed doses should not be replaced and the dosing should resume with the next scheduled daily dose 

(see section 4.9). 

 

The full prescribing information of the co-administered medicinal product should be consulted for 

relevant details of their posology including any dose reductions, contraindications and safety 

information. 

 

4.3 Contraindications 
 

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1. 

 

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use 
 

Data have shown that Tyverb combined with chemotherapy is less effective than trastuzumab when 

combined with chemotherapy. 

 



 

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Cardiac toxicity 

 

Lapatinib has been associated with reports of decreases in LVEF (see section 4.8). Lapatinib has not 

been evaluated in patients with symptomatic cardiac failure. Caution should be taken if Tyverb is to be 

administered to patients with conditions that could impair left ventricular function (including co-

administration with potentially cardiotoxic medicinal products). Evaluation of cardiac function, 

including LVEF determination, should be conducted for all patients prior to initiation of treatment 

with Tyverb to ensure that the patient has a baseline LVEF that is within the institutions normal limits. 

LVEF should continue to be evaluated during treatment with Tyverb to ensure that LVEF does not 

decline to an unacceptable level (see section 4.2). In some cases, LVEF decrease may be severe and 

lead to cardiac failure. Fatal cases have been reported, causality of the deaths is uncertain. In studies 

across the clinical development programme for lapatinib, cardiac events including LVEF decreases 

were reported in approximately 1% of patients. Symptomatic LVEF decreases were observed in 

approximately 0.3% of patients who received lapatinib. However, when lapatinib was administered in 

combination with trastuzumab in the metastatic setting, the incidence of cardiac events including 

LVEF decreases was higher (7%) versus the lapatinib alone arm (2%) in the pivotal trial. The cardiac 

events observed in this study were comparable in nature and severity to those previously seen with 

lapatinib. 

 

A concentration-dependent increase of the QTc interval was demonstrated in a dedicated 

placebo-controlled crossover study in subjects with advanced solid tumours. 

 

Caution should be taken if Tyverb is administered to patients with conditions that could result in 

prolongation of QTc (including hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and congenital long QT syndrome), 

co-administration of other medicinal product known to cause QT prolongation, or conditions that 

increase the exposure of lapatinib, such as co-administration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. 

Hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia should be corrected prior to treatment. Electrocardiograms with QT 

measurement should be performed prior to and one to two weeks after the start of Tyverb therapy. 

When clinically indicated, e.g. after initiation of a concomitant treatment that might affect QT or that 

may interact with lapatinib, ECG measurement should also be considered. 

 

Interstitial lung disease and pneumonitis 

 

Lapatinib has been associated with reports of pulmonary toxicity including interstitial lung disease and 

pneumonitis (see section 4.8). Patients should be monitored for symptoms of pulmonary toxicity 

(dyspnoea, cough, fever) and treatment discontinued in patients who experience symptoms which are 

NCI CTCAE grade 3 or greater. Pulmonary toxicity may be severe and lead to respiratory failure. 

Fatal cases have been reported, causality of the deaths is uncertain. 

 

Hepatotoxicity 

 

Hepatotoxicity has occurred with Tyverb use and may in rare cases be fatal. The hepatotoxicity may 

occur days to several months after initiation of treatment. At the initiation of treatment, patients should 

be advised of the potential for hepatotoxicity. Liver function (transaminases, bilirubin and alkaline 

phosphatase) should be monitored before the initiation of treatment and monthly thereafter, or as 

clinically indicated. Tyverb dosing should be discontinued if changes in liver function are severe and 

patients should not be retreated. Patients who carry the HLA alleles DQA1*02:01 and DRB1*07:01 

have increased risk of Tyverb-associated hepatotoxicity. In a large, randomised clinical trial of Tyverb 

monotherapy (n=1,194), the cumulative frequency of severe liver injury (ALT >5 times the upper limit 

of normal, NCI CTCAE grade 3) at 1 year of treatment was 2.8% overall. The cumulative frequency in 

DQA1*02:01 and DRB1*07:01 allele carriers was 10.3% and in non-carriers was 0.5%. Carriage of 

the HLA risk alleles is common (15 to 25%) in Caucasian, Asian, African and Hispanic populations 

but lower (1%) in Japanese populations. 

 

Caution is warranted if Tyverb is prescribed to patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment 

and to patients with severe renal impairment (see sections 4.2 and 5.2). 

 



 

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Diarrhoea 

 

Diarrhoea, including severe diarrhoea, has been reported with Tyverb treatment (see section 4.8). 

Diarrhoea can be potentially life-threatening if accompanied by dehydration, renal insufficiency, 

neutropenia and/or electrolyte imbalances and fatal cases have been reported. Diarrhoea generally 

occurs early during Tyverb treatment, with almost half of those patients with diarrhoea first 

experiencing it within 6 days. This usually lasts 4-5 days. Tyverb-induced diarrhoea is usually 

low-grade, with severe diarrhoea of NCI CTCAE grades 3 and 4 occurring in <10% and <1% of 

patients, respectively. At the start of therapy, the patients bowel pattern and any other symptoms (e.g. 

fever, cramping pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and thirst) should be determined, to allow 

identification of changes during treatment and to help identify patients at greater risk of diarrhoea. 

Patients should be instructed to promptly report any change in bowel patterns. In potentially severe 

cases of diarrhoea the measuring of neutrophil counts and body temperature should be considered. 

Proactive management of diarrhoea with anti-diarrhoeal medicinal product is important. Severe cases 

of diarrhoea may require administration of oral or intravenous electrolytes and fluids, use of 

antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones (especially if diarrhoea is persistent beyond 24 hours, there is 

fever, or grade 3 or 4 neutropenia) and interruption or discontinuation of Tyverb therapy (see 

section 4.2 – dose delay and dose reduction –diarrhoea). 

 

Serious cutaneous reactions 

 

Serious cutaneous reactions have been reported with Tyverb. If erythema multiforme or 

life-threatening reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or toxic epidermal necrolysis (e.g. 

progressive skin rash often with blisters or mucosal lesions) are suspected, discontinue treatment with 

Tyverb. 

 

Concomitant treatment with inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4 

 

Concomitant treatment with inducers of CYP3A4 should be avoided due to risk of decreased exposure 

to lapatinib (see section 4.5). 

 

Concomitant treatment with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided due to risk of increased 

exposure to lapatinib (see section 4.5). 

 

Grapefruit juice should be avoided during treatment with Tyverb (see section 4.5). 

 

Co-administration of Tyverb with orally administered medicinal products with narrow therapeutic 

windows that are substrates of CYP3A4 and /or CYP2C8 should be avoided (see section 4.5). 

 

Concomitant treatment with substances that increase gastric pH should be avoided, as lapatinib 

solubility and absorption may decrease (see section 4.5). 

 

Tyverb contains sodium 

 

This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per tablet, that is to say essentially 

‘sodium-free’. 

 

  



 

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4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction 
 

Effects of other medicinal products on lapatinib 

 

Lapatinib is predominantly metabolised by CYP3A (see section 5.2). 

 

In healthy volunteers receiving ketoconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, at 200 mg twice daily for 

7 days, systemic exposure to lapatinib (100 mg daily) was increased approximately 3.6–fold, and 

half-life increased 1.7–fold. Co-administration of Tyverb with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g. 

ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, 

nefazodone) should be avoided. Co-administration of Tyverb with moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 

should proceed with caution and clinical adverse reactions should be carefully monitored. 

 

In healthy volunteers receiving carbamazepine, a CYP3A4 inducer, at 100 mg twice daily for 3 days 

and 200 mg twice daily for 17 days, systemic exposure to lapatinib was decreased approximately 72%. 

Co-administration of Tyverb with known inducers of CYP3A4 (e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin, 

carbamazepine, phenytoin or Hypericum perforatum [St John’s Wort]) should be avoided. 

 

Lapatinib is a substrate for the transport proteins Pgp and BCRP. Inhibitors (ketoconazole, 

itraconazole, quinidine, verapamil, cyclosporine, and erythromycin) and inducers (rifampicin and St 

John’s Wort) of these proteins may alter the exposure and/or distribution of lapatinib (see section 5.2). 

 

The solubility of lapatinib is pH-dependent. Concomitant treatment with substances that increase 

gastric pH should be avoided, as lapatinib solubility and absorption may decrease. Pre-treatment with 

a proton pump inhibitor (esomeprazole) decreased lapatinib exposure by an average of 27% (range: 

6% to 49%). This effect decreases with increasing age from approximately 40 to 60 years. 

 

Effects of lapatinib on other medicinal products 

 

Lapatinib inhibits CYP3A4 in vitro at clinically relevant concentrations. Co-administration of Tyverb 

with orally administered midazolam resulted in an approximate 45% increase in the AUC of 

midazolam. There was no clinically meaningful increase in AUC when midazolam was dosed 

intravenously. Co-administration of Tyverb with orally administered medicinal products with narrow 

therapeutic windows that are substrates of CYP3A4 (e.g. cisapride, pimozide and quinidine) should be 

avoided (see sections 4.4 and 5.2). 

 

Lapatinib inhibits CYP2C8 in vitro at clinically relevant concentrations. Co-administration of Tyverb 

with medicinal products with narrow therapeutic windows that are substrates of CYP2C8 (e.g. 

repaglinide) should be avoided (see sections 4.4 and 5.2). 

 

Co-administration of lapatinib with intravenous paclitaxel increased the exposure of paclitaxel by 

23%, due to lapatinib inhibition of CYP2C8 and/or Pgp. An increase in the incidence and severity of 

diarrhoea and neutropenia has been observed with this combination in clinical studies. Caution is 

advised if lapatinib is co-administered with paclitaxel. 

 

Co-administration of lapatinib with intravenously administered docetaxel did not significantly affect 

the AUC or Cmax of either active substance. However, the occurrence of docetaxel-induced neutropenia 

was increased. 

 

Co-administration of Tyverb with irinotecan (when administered as part of the FOLFIRI regimen) 

resulted in an approximate 40% increase in the AUC of SN-38, the active metabolite of irinotecan. 

The precise mechanism of this interaction is unknown, but it is assumed to be due to inhibition of one 

or more transport proteins by lapatinib. Adverse reactions should be carefully monitored if Tyverb is 

co-administered with irinotecan, and a reduction in the dose of irinotecan should be considered. 

 



 

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Lapatinib inhibits the transport protein Pgp in vitro at clinically relevant concentrations. 

Co-administration of lapatinib with orally administered digoxin resulted in an approximate 80% 

increase in the AUC of digoxin. Caution should be exercised when dosing lapatinib concurrently with 

medicinal products with narrow therapeutic windows that are substrates of Pgp, and a reduction in the 

dose of the Pgp substrate should be considered. 

 

Lapatinib inhibits the transport proteins BCRP and OATP1B1 in vitro. The clinical relevance of this 

effect has not been evaluated. It cannot be excluded that lapatinib will affect the pharmacokinetics of 

substrates of BCRP (e.g. topotecan) and OATP1B1 (e.g. rosuvastatin) (see section 5.2). 

 

Concomitant administration of Tyverb with capecitabine, letrozole or trastuzumab did not 

meaningfully alter the pharmacokinetics of these medicinal products (or the metabolites of 

capecitabine) or lapatinib. 

 

Interactions with food and drink 

 

The bioavailability of lapatinib is increased up to about 4 times by food, depending on e.g. the fat 

content in the meal. Furthermore, depending on type of food the bioavailability is approximately 

2-3 times higher when lapatinib is taken 1 hour after food compared with 1 hour before the first meal 

of the day (see sections 4.2 and 5.2). 

 

Grapefruit juice may inhibit CYP3A4 in the gut wall and increase the bioavailability of lapatinib and 

should therefore be avoided during treatment with Tyverb. 

 

4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation 
 

Women of childbearing potential 

 

Women of childbearing potential should be advised to use adequate contraception and avoid becoming 

pregnant while receiving treatment with Tyverb and for at least 5 days after the last dose. 

 

Pregnancy 

 

There are no adequate data from the use of Tyverb in pregnant women. Studies in animals have shown 

reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3). The potential risk for humans is not known. 

 

Tyverb should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. 

 

Breast-feeding 

 

The safe use of Tyverb during breast-feeding has not been established. It is not known whether 

lapatinib is excreted in human milk. In rats, growth retardation was observed in pups which were 

exposed to lapatinib via breast milk. Breast-feeding must be discontinued in women who are receiving 

therapy with Tyverb and for at least 5 days after the last dose. 

 

Fertility 

 

There are no adequate data from the use of Tyverb in women of childbearing potential. 

 

  



 

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4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines 
 

Tyverb has no influence on the ability to drive and use machines. A detrimental effect on such 

activities cannot be predicted from the pharmacology of lapatinib. The clinical status of the patient and 

the safety profile of lapatinib should be borne in mind when considering the patient's ability to perform 

tasks that require judgement, motor or cognitive skills. 

 

4.8 Undesirable effects 

 

Summary of the safety profile 

 

The safety of lapatinib has been evaluated as monotherapy or in combination with other 

chemotherapies for various cancers in more than 20,000 patients, including 198 patients who received 

lapatinib in combination with capecitabine, 149 patients who received lapatinib in combination with 

trastuzumab and 654 patients who received lapatinib in combination with letrozole (see section 5.1). 

 

The most common adverse reactions (>25%) during therapy with lapatinib were gastrointestinal events 

(such as diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting) and rash. Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (PPE) was also 

common (>25%) when lapatinib was administered in combination with capecitabine. The incidence of 

PPE was similar in the lapatinib plus capecitabine and capecitabine alone treatment arms. Diarrhoea 

was the most common adverse reaction resulting in discontinuation of treatment when lapatinib was 

administered in combination with capecitabine, or with letrozole. 

 

No additional adverse reactions were reported to be associated with lapatinib in combination with 

trastuzumab. There was an increased incidence of cardiac toxicity, but these events were comparable 

in nature and severity to those reported from the lapatinib clinical programme (see section 4.4 – 

cardiac toxicity). These data are based on exposure to this combination in 149 patients in the pivotal 

trial. 

 

Tabulated list of adverse reactions 

 

The following adverse reactions have been reported to have a causal association with lapatinib alone 

or lapatinib in combination with capecitabine, trastuzumab or letrozole. 

 

The following convention has been utilised for the classification of frequency: very common ((1/10), 

common (1/100 to <1/10), uncommon (1/1,000 to <1/100), rare (1/10,000 to <1/1,000) and very 

rare (<1/10,000), not known (cannot be estimated from the available data). 

 

  



 

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Within each frequency grouping, undesirable effects are presented in order of decreasing seriousness. 

 

Immune system disorders 

Rare Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis (see section 4.3) 

Metabolism and nutrition disorders 

Very common Anorexia 

Psychiatric disorders 

Very common Insomnia* 

Nervous system disorders 

Very common Headache† 

Common Headache* 

Cardiac disorders 

Common Decreased left ventricular ejection fraction (see section 4.2 - dose reduction 

– cardiac events and section 4.4). 

Not known Ventricular arrhythmias/Torsades de Pointes, electrocardiogram QT 

prolonged** 

Vascular disorders 

Very common Hot flush† 

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders 

Very common Epistaxis†, cough†, dyspnoea†. 

Uncommon Interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis. 

Not known Pulmonary arterial hypertension**. 

Gastrointestinal disorders 

Very common Diarrhoea, which may lead to dehydration (see section 4.2 - dose delay and 

dose reduction – other toxicities and section 4.4), nausea, vomiting, 

dyspepsia*, stomatitis*, constipation*, abdominal pain*. 

Common Constipation† 

Hepatobiliary disorders 

Common Hyperbilirubinaemia, hepatotoxicity (see section 4.4). 

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders 

Very common Rash (including dermatitis acneiform) (see section 4.2 - dose delay and 

dose reduction – other toxicities), dry skin*†, palmar-plantar 

erythrodysaesthesia*, alopecia†, pruritus†. 

Common Nail disorders including paronychia. 

Not known Serious cutaneous reactions, including Stevens Johnson syndrome (SJS) 

and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)** 

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders 

Very common Pain in extremity*†, back pain*†, arthralgia†. 

General disorders and administration site conditions 

Very common Fatigue, mucosal inflammation*, asthenia†. 

* These adverse reactions were observed when lapatinib was administered in combination with 

capecitabine. 
† These adverse reactions were observed when lapatinib was administered in combination with 

letrozole. 

** Adverse reactions from spontaneous reports and literature 

 



 

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Description of selected adverse reactions 

 

Decreased left ventricular ejection fraction and QT interval prolongation 

 

Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) decreases have been reported in approximately 1% of 

patients receiving lapatinib and were asymptomatic in more than 70% of cases. LVEF decreases 

resolved or improved in more than 70 % of cases, in approximately 60 % of these on discontinuation 

of treatment with lapatinib, and in approximately 40 % of cases lapatinib was continued. Symptomatic 

LVEF decreases were observed in approximately 0.3% of patients who received lapatinib 

monotherapy or in combination with other anti-cancer medicinal products. Observed adverse reactions 

included dyspnoea, cardiac failure and palpitations. Overall 58 % of these symptomatic patients 

recovered. LVEF decreases were reported in 2.5 % of patients who received lapatinib in combination 

with capecitabine, as compared to 1.0 % with capecitabine alone. LVEF decreases were reported in 

3.1 % of patients who received lapatinib in combination with letrozole as compared to 1.3 % of 

patients receiving letrozole plus placebo. LVEF decreases were reported in 6.7 % of patients who 

received lapatinib in combination with trastuzumab, as compared to 2.1 % of patients who received 

lapatinib alone. 

 

A concentration dependent increase in QTcF (maximum mean ΔΔQTcF 8.75 ms; 90% CI 4.08, 13.42) 

was observed in a dedicated QT study in patients with advanced solid tumours (see section 4.4). 

 

Diarrhoea 

 

Diarrhoea occurred in approximately 65 % of patients who received lapatinib in combination with 

capecitabine, in 64 % of patients who received lapatinib in combination with letrozole and in 62 % of 

patients who received lapatinib in combination with trastuzumab. Most cases of diarrhoea were 

grade 1 or 2 and did not result in discontinuation of treatment with lapatinib. Diarrhoea responds well 

to proactive management (see section 4.4). However, a few cases of acute renal failure have been 

reported secondary to severe dehydration due to diarrhoea. 

 

Rash 

 

Rash occurred in approximately 28 % of patients who received lapatinib in combination with 

capecitabine, in 45 % of patients who received lapatinib in combination with letrozole and in 23 % of 

patients who received lapatinib in combination with trastuzumab. Rash was generally low grade and 

did not result in discontinuation of treatment with lapatinib. Prescribing physicians are advised to 

perform a skin examination prior to treatment and regularly during treatment. Patients experiencing 

skin reactions should be encouraged to avoid exposure to sunlight and apply broad spectrum 

sunscreens with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF)  30. If a skin reaction occurs a full body examination 

should be performed at every visit until one month after resolution. Patients with extensive or 

persistent skin reactions should be referred to a dermatologist. 

 

Hepatotoxicity 

 

The risk of lapatinib-induced hepatotoxicity was associated with carriage of the HLA alleles 

DQA1*02:01 and DRB1*07:01 (see section 4.4). 

 

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions 

 

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It 

allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare 

professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the national reporting system 

listed in Appendix V. 

 



 

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4.9 Overdose 
 

There is no specific antidote for the inhibition of EGFR (ErbB1) and/or HER2 (ErbB2) tyrosine 

phosphorylation. The maximum oral dose of lapatinib that has been administered in clinical studies is 

1800 mg once daily. 

 

Asymptomatic and symptomatic cases of overdose have been reported in patients being treated with 

Tyverb. In patients who took up to 5000 mg of lapatinib, symptoms observed include known lapatinib 

associated events (see section 4.8) and in some cases sore scalp and/or mucosal inflammation. In a 

single case of a patient who took 9000 mg of Tyverb, sinus tachycardia (with otherwise normal ECG) 

was also observed. 

 

Lapatinib is not significantly renally excreted and is highly bound to plasma proteins, therefore 

haemodialysis would not be expected to be an effective method to enhance the elimination of 

lapatinib. 

 

Further management should be as clinically indicated or as recommended by the national poisons 

centre, where available. 

 

 

5. PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES 
 

5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties 
 

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Antineoplastic agents, other antineoplastic agents, protein kinase 

inhibitors, ATC code: L01XE07 

 

Mechanism of action 

 

Lapatinib, a 4-anilinoquinazoline, is an inhibitor of the intracellular tyrosine kinase domains of both 

EGFR (ErbB1) and of HER2 (ErbB2) receptors (estimated Kiapp values of 3nM and 13nM, 

respectively) with a slow off-rate from these receptors (half-life greater than or equal to 300 minutes). 

Lapatinib inhibits ErbB-driven tumour cell growth in vitro and in various animal models. 

 

The combination of lapatinib and trastuzumab may offer complementary mechanisms of action as well 

as possible non-overlapping mechanisms of resistance. The growth inhibitory effects of lapatinib were 

evaluated in trastuzumab-conditioned cell lines. Lapatinib retained significant activity against 

HER2-amplified breast cancer cell lines selected for long-term growth in trastuzumab-containing 

medium in vitro and was synergistic in combination with trastuzumab in these cell lines. 

 

Clinical efficacy and safety 

 

Combination treatment with Tyverb and capecitabine 

 

The efficacy and safety of Tyverb in combination with capecitabine in breast cancer patients with 

good performance status was evaluated in a randomised, phase III study. Patients eligible for 

enrolment had HER2-overexpressing, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, progressing after 

prior treatment that included taxanes, anthracyclines and trastuzumab. LVEF was evaluated in all 

patients (using echocardiogram [Echo] or multi gated acquisition scan [MUGA]) prior to initiation of 

treatment with Tyverb to ensure baseline LVEF was within the institutions normal limits. In the 

clinical study LVEF was monitored at approximately eight week intervals during treatment with 

Tyverb to ensure it did not decline to below the institutions lower limit of normal. The majority of 

LVEF decreases (greater than 60 % of events) were observed during the first nine weeks of treatment, 

however limited data was available for long term exposure. 

 



 

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Patients were randomised to receive either Tyverb 1250 mg once daily (continuously) plus 

capecitabine (2000 mg/m2/day on days 1-14 every 21 days), or to receive capecitabine alone 

(2500 mg/m2/day on days 1-14 every 21 days). The primary endpoint was time to progression (TTP). 

Assessments were undertaken by the study investigators and by an independent review panel, blinded 

to treatment. The study was halted based on the results of a pre-specified interim analysis that showed 

an improvement in TTP for patients receiving Tyverb plus capecitabine. An additional 75 patients 

were enrolled in the study between the time of the interim analysis and the end of the enrolment. 

Investigator analysis on data at the end of enrolment is presented in Table 1. 

 

Table 1 Time to progression data from Study EGF100151 (Tyverb / capecitabine) 

 

 Investigator assessment 

Tyverb (1250 mg/day)+ 

capecitabine (2000 mg/m2/day, 

days 1-14 q21 days) 

Capecitabine (2500 mg/m2/day, 

days 1-14 q21 days) 

(N = 198) (N = 201) 

Number of TTP events 121 126 

Median TTP, weeks 23.9 18.3 

 Hazard Ratio  0.72 

  (95% CI) (0.56, 0.92) 

  p value 0.008 

 

The independent assessment of the data also demonstrated that Tyverb when given in combination 

with capecitabine significantly increased time to progression (Hazard Ratio 0.57 [95 % CI 0.43, 0.77] 

p=0.0001) compared to capecitabine alone. 

 

Results of an updated analysis of the overall survival data to 28 September 2007 are presented in 

Table 2. 

 

Table 2 Overall survival data from Study EGF100151 (Tyverb / capecitabine) 

 

 Tyverb (1250 mg/day)+ 

capecitabine (2000 mg/m2/day, 

days 1-14 q21 days) 

Capecitabine (2500 mg/m2/day, 

days 1-14 q21 days) 

(N = 207) (N = 201) 

Number of subjects who 

died 

148 154 

Median overall survival, 

weeks 

74.0 65.9 

 Hazard Ratio  0.9 

 (95% CI) (0.71, 1.12) 

 p value 0.3 

 

On the combination arm, there were 4 (2%) progressions in the central nervous system as compared 

with the 13 (6%) progressions on the capecitabine alone arm. 

 



 

 14 

Data are available on the efficacy and safety of Tyverb in combination with capecitabine relative to 

trastuzumab in combination with capecitabine. A randomised Phase III study (EGF111438) (N=540) 

compared the effect of the two regimens on the incidence of CNS as site of first relapse in women with 

HER2 overexpressing metastatic breast cancer. Patients were randomised to either Tyverb 1250 mg 

once daily (continuously) plus capecitabine (2000 mg/m2/day on days 1-14 every 21 days), or 

trastuzumab (loading dose of 8mg/kg followed by 6mg/kg q3 weekly infusions) plus capecitabine 

(2500mg/m2/day, days 1-14, every 21 days). Randomisation was stratified by prior trastuzumab 

treatment and number of prior treatments for metastatic disease. The study was halted as the interim 

analysis (N=475) showed a low incidence of CNS events and, superior efficacy of the trastuzumab 

plus capecitabine arm in terms of progression-free survival and overall survival (see results of final 

analysis in Table 3). 

 

In the Tyverb plus capecitabine arm 8 patients (3.2%) experienced CNS as site of first progression, 

compared with 12 patients (4.8%) in the trastuzumab plus capecitabine arm. 

 

  



 

 15 

Lapatinib effect on CNS metastasis 

 

Lapatinib has in terms of objective responses demonstrated modest activity in the treatment of 

established CNS metastases. In the prevention of CNS metastases in the metastatic and early breast 

cancer settings the observed activity was limited. 

 

Table 3 Analyses of investigator-assessed progression-free survival and overall survival 

 

 Investigator-assessed PFS Overall survival 

Tyverb 

(1250 mg/day) + 

capecitabine 

(2000 mg/m2/day, 

days 1-14 q21 

days) 

Trastuzumab 

(loading dose of 

8mg/kg followed 

by 6mg/kg q3 

weekly infusions) 

+ 

capecitabine 

(2500 mg/m2/day, 

days 1-14 q21 

days) 

Tyverb 

(1250 mg/day) + 

capecitabine 

(2000 mg/m2/day, 

days 1-14 q21 

days) 

Trastuzumab 

(loading dose of 

8mg/kg followed 

by 6mg/kg q3 

weekly infusions) 

+ 

capecitabine 

(2500 mg/m2/day, 

days 1-14 q21 

days) 

ITT population 

N 271 269 271 269 

Number (%) 

with event1 

160 (59) 134 (50) 70 (26) 58 (22) 

Kaplan-Meier 

estimate, 

months a 

  

  

Median (95% 

CI) 

6.6 (5.7, 8.1) 8.0 (6.1, 8.9) 

22.7 (19.5, -) 27.3 (23.7, -) 

Stratified 

Hazard ratio 
b 

  

HR (95% CI) 1.30 (1.04, 1.64) 1.34 (0.95, 1.90) 

p-value 0.021 0.095 

Subjects who had received prior trastuzumab* 

N 167 159 167 159 

Number (%) 

with event1 

103 (62) 86 (54) 43 (26) 38 (24) 

Median (95% 

CI) 

6.6 (5.7, 8.3) 6.1 (5.7, 8.0) 

22.7 (20.1,-) 27.3 (22.5, 33.6) 

HR (95% CI) 1.13 (0.85, 1.50) 1.18 (0.76, 1.83) 

Subjects who had not received prior trastuzumab* 

N 104 110 104 110 

Number (%) 

with event1 

57 (55) 48 (44) 27 (26) 20 (18) 

Median (95% 

CI) 

6.3 (5.6, 8.1) 10.9 (8.3, 15.0) 

NE2 (14.6, -) NE2 (21.6, -) 

HR (95% CI) 1.70 (1.15, 2.50) 1.67 (0.94, 2.96) 

CI = confidence interval 

a. PFS was defined as the time from randomisation to the earliest date of disease progression or 

death from any cause, or to the date of censor. 

b. Pike estimate of the treatment hazard ratio, <1 indicates a lower risk for Tyverb plus capecitabine 

compared with Trastuzumab plus capecitabine. 

1. PFS event is Progressed or Died and OS event is Died due to any cause. 

2. NE=median was not reached. 

* Post hoc analysis 

 



 

 16 

Combination treatment with Tyverb and trastuzumab 

 

The efficacy and safety of lapatinib in combination with trastuzumab in metastatic breast cancer were 

evaluated in a randomised trial. Eligible patients were women with Stage IV ErbB2 gene amplified (or 

protein overexpressing) metastatic breast cancer who had been exposed to treatment with 

anthracyclines and taxanes. In addition, per the protocol, patients were to be reported by the 

investigators as having progressed on their most recent trastuzumab containing regimen in the 

metastatic setting. The median number of prior trastuzumab-containing regimens was three. Patients 

were randomised to receive either oral lapatinib 1000 mg once daily plus trastuzumab 4 mg/kg 

administered as an intravenousloading dose, followed by 2 mg/kg intravenous weekly (N = 148), or 

oral lapatinib 1500 mg once daily (N = 148). Patients who had objective disease progression after 

receiving at least 4 weeks of treatment with lapatinib monotherapy were eligible to crossover to 

combination therapy. Of the 148 patients who received monotherapy treatment, 77 (52%) patients 

elected at the time of disease progression to receive combination treatment. 

 

Progression-free survival (PFS) was the primary endpoint of the study with response rate and overall 

survival (OS) as secondary endpoints. The median age was 51 years and 13% were 65 years or older. 

Ninety-four percent (94%) were Caucasian. Most patients in both treatment arms had visceral disease 

(215 [73%] patients overall). In addition, 150 [50%] of patients were hormone receptor negative. A 

summary of efficacy endpoints and overall survival data is provided in Table 4. Subgroup analysis 

results based on predefined stratification factor (hormone receptor status) is also shown in Table 5. 

 

Table 4 Progression-free survival and overall survival data (Tyverb / trastuzumab) 

 

 Lapatinib plus 

trastuzumab 

(N=148) 

Lapatinib alone 

(N=148 ) 

Median PFS1, weeks 

(95% CI) 

12.0 

(8.1, 16.0) 

8.1 

(7.6, 9.0) 

Hazard ratio (95% CI) 0.73 (0.57, 0.93) 

P value 0.008 

Response rate, % 

(95% CI) 

10.3 

(5.9, 16.4) 

6.9 

(3.4, 12.3) 

Died 105 113 

Median overall survival1, months 

(95% CI) 

14.0 

(11.9, 17.2) 

9.5 

(7.6, 12.0) 

Hazard ratio (95% CI) 0.74 (0.57, 0.97) 

P value 0.026 

PFS = progression-free survival; CI = confidence interval. 
1Kaplan-Meier estimates 

 

Table 5 Summary of PFS and OS in studies with hormone receptor negative 

 

 Median PFS Median OS 

Lap+Tras 15.4 wks (8.4, 16.9) 17.2 mos (13.9, 19.2) 

Lap 8.2 wks (7.4, 9.3) 8.9 mos (6.7, 11.8) 

HR (95% CI) 0.73 (0.52, 1.03) 0.62 (0.42, 0.90) 

 

  



 

 17 

Combination treatment with Tyverb and letrozole 

 

Tyverb has been studied in combination with letrozole for the treatment of postmenopausal women 

with hormone receptor-positive (oestrogen receptor [ER] positive and / or progesterone receptor [PgR] 

positive) advanced or metastatic breast cancer. 

 

The Phase III study (EGF30008) was randomised, double-blind, and placebo controlled. The study 

enrolled patients who had not received prior therapy for their metastatic disease. 

 

In the HER2-overexpressing population, only 2 patients were enrolled who had received prior 

trastuzumab, 2 patients had received prior aromatase inhibitor therapy, and approximately half had 

received tamoxifen. 

 

Patients were randomised to letrozole 2.5 mg once daily plus Tyverb 1500 mg once daily or letrozole 

with placebo. Randomisation was stratified by sites of disease and by time from discontinuation of 

prior adjuvant anti-oestrogen therapy. HER2 receptor status was retrospectively determined by central 

laboratory testing. Of all patients randomised to treatment, 219 patients had tumours overexpressing 

the HER2 receptor, and this was the pre-specified primary population for the analysis of efficacy. 

There were 952 patients with HER2-negative tumours, and a total of 115 patients whose tumour HER2 

status was unconfirmed (no tumour sample, no assay result, or other reason). 

 

In patients with HER2-overexpressing MBC, investigator-determined progression-free survival (PFS) 

was significantly greater with letrozole plus Tyverb compared with letrozole plus placebo. In the 

HER2-negative population, there was no benefit in PFS when letrozole plus Tyverb was compared 

with letrozole plus placebo (see Table 6). 

 

Table 6 Progression free survival data from Study EGF30008 (Tyverb / letrozole) 

 

 HER2-overexpressing population HER2-negative population 

N = 111 N = 108 N = 478 N = 474 

Tyverb 

1500 mg / day 

+ Letrozole 

2.5 mg /day 

 

Letrozole 

2.5 mg /day 

+ placebo 

Tyverb 

1500 mg / day 

+ Letrozole 

2.5 mg /day 

 

Letrozole 

2.5 mg /day 

+ placebo 

Median PFS, weeks 

(95% CI) 

35.4 

(24.1, 39.4) 

13.0 

(12.0, 23.7) 

59.7 

(48.6, 69.7) 

58.3 

(47.9, 62.0) 

Hazard ratio 0.71 (0.53, 0.96) 0.90 (0.77, 1.05) 

P-value 0.019 0.188 

Objective response 

rate (ORR) 

27.9% 14.8% 32.6% 31.6% 

Odds ratio 0.4 (0.2, 0.9) 0.9 (0.7, 1.3) 

P-value 0.021 0.26 

Clinical benefit rate 

(CBR) 

47.7% 28.7% 58.2% 31.6% 

Odds ratio 0.4 (0.2, 0.8) 1.0 (0.7, 1.2) 

P-value 0.003 0.199 

CI= confidence interval 

HER2 overexpression = IHC 3+ and/or FISH positive; HER2 negative = IHC 0, 1+ or 2+ and/or 

FISH negative 

Clinical benefit rate was defined as complete plus partial response plus stable disease for 

6 months. 

 

  



 

 18 

At the time of the final PFS analysis (with median follow-up of 2.64 years), the overall survival data 

were not mature and there was no significant difference between treatment groups in the 

HER2-positive population; this had not changed with additional follow-up (>7.5 years median follow-

up time; Table 7). 

 

Table 7 Overall survival (OS) results from study EGF30008 (in the HER2-positive 

population only) 

 

 Tyverb 1500 mg / day 

+ Letrozole 2.5 mg 

/day 

N=111 

Letrozole 2.5 mg /day 

+ placebo 

N=108 

Pre-planned OS analysis (conducted at the time of the final PFS analysis, 03 June 2008) 

Median follow-up (yrs) 2,64 2,64 

Deaths (%) 50 (45) 54 (50) 

Hazard ratioa (95% CI), p-valueb 0,77 (0,52; 1,14); 0,185 

Final OS analysis (post-hoc analysis, 07 August 2013) 

Median follow-up (yrs) 7,78 7,55 

Deaths (%) 86 (77) 78 (72) 

Hazard ratio (95% CI), p-value 0,97 (0,07; 1,33); 0,848 

Median values from Kaplan-Meier analysis; HR and p-values from Cox regression models adjusting 

for important prognostic factors. 

a. Estimate of the treatment hazard ratio, where <1 indicates a lower risk with letrozole 2.5 mg + 

lapatinib 1500 mg compared with letrozole 2.5 mg + placebo. 

b. P-value from Cox regression model, stratifying for site of disease and prior anti-adjuvant 

therapy at screening. 

 

Cardiac electrophysiology 

 

The effect of lapatinib on the QT-interval was evaluated in a single-blind, placebo-controlled, single 

sequence (placebo and active treatment) crossover study in patients with advanced solid tumours 

(EGF114271) (n=58). During the 4-day treatment period, three doses of matching placebo were 

administered 12 hours apart in the morning and evening on Day 1 and in the morning on Day 2. This 

was followed by three doses of lapatinib 2000 mg administered in the same way. Measurements, 

including electrocardiograms (ECGs) and pharmacokinetic samples, were taken at baseline and at the 

same time points on Day 2 and Day 4. 

 

In the evaluable population (n=37), the maximum mean ΔΔQTcF (90% CI) of 8.75 ms (4.08, 13.42) 

was observed 10 hours after ingestion of the third dose of lapatinib 2000 mg. The ΔΔQTcF exceeded 

the 5 ms threshold and the upper bound 90% CIs exceeded the 10 ms threshold at multiple time points. 

The results for the pharmacodynamics population (n=52) were consistent with those from the 

evaluable population (maximum ΔΔQTcF (90% CI) of 7.91 ms (4.13, 11.68) observed 10 hours after 

ingestion of the third dose of lapatinib 2000 mg). 

 

There is a positive relationship between lapatinib plasma concentrations and ΔΔQTcF. Lapatinib 

produced a maximum mean concentration of 3920 (3450-4460) ng/ml (geometric mean/95% CI), 

exceeding the geometric mean Cmax.ss and 95% CI values observed following the approved dosing 

regimens. An additional increase in peak exposure of lapatinib can be expected when lapatinib is taken 

repeatedly with food (see sections 4.2 and 5.2) or concomitantly with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. 

When lapatinib is taken in combination with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors the QTc interval can be 

expected to be prolonged by 16.1 ms (12.6-20.3 ms) as demonstrated in a model-based prediction (see 

section 4.4). 

 



 

 19 

Food effects on lapatinib exposure 

 

The bioavailability and thereby the plasma concentrations of lapatinib are increased by food, in 

relation to the content and timing of the meal. Dosing of lapatinib one hour after a meal results in 

approximately 2-3 times higher systemic exposure, compared to dosing one hour before a meal (see 

sections 4.5 and 5.2). 

 

The European Medicines Agency has waived the obligation to submit the results of studies with 

Tyverb in all subsets of the paediatric population in the treatment of breast carcinoma (see section 4.2 

for information on paediatric use). 

 

5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties 
 

Absorption 

 

The absolute bioavailability following oral administration of lapatinib is unknown, but it is incomplete 

and variable (approximately 70% coefficient of variation in AUC). Serum concentrations appear after 

a median lag time of 0.25 hours (range 0 to 1.5 hours). Peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) of lapatinib 

are achieved approximately 4 hours after administration. Daily dosing of 1250 mg produces steady 

state geometric mean (coefficient of variation) Cmax values of 2.43 (76%) µg/ml and AUC values of 

36.2 (79%) µg*hr/ml. 

 

Systemic exposure to lapatinib is increased when administered with food. Lapatinib AUC values were 

approximately 3- and 4-fold higher (Cmax approximately 2.5 and 3–fold higher) when administered 

with a low fat (5% fat [500 calories]) or with a high fat (50% fat [1,000 calories]) meal, respectively, 

as compared with administration in the fasted state. Systemic exposure to lapatinib is also affected by 

the timing of administration in relation to food intake. Relative to dosing 1 hour before a low fat 

breakfast, mean AUC values were approximately 2- and 3-fold higher when lapatinib was 

administered 1 hour after a low fat or high fat meal, respectively. 

 

Distribution 

 

Lapatinib is highly bound (greater than 99%) to albumin and alpha-1 acid glycoprotein. In vitro 

studies indicate that lapatinib is a substrate for the transporters BCRP (ABCG1) and p-glycoprotein 

(ABCB1). Lapatinib has also been shown in vitro to inhibit these efflux transporters, as well as the 

hepatic uptake transporter OATP 1B1, at clinically relevant concentrations (IC50 values were equal to 

2.3 µg/ml). The clinical significance of these effects on the pharmacokinetics of other medicinal 

products or the pharmacological activity of other anti-cancer medicinal products is not known. 

 

Biotransformation 

 

Lapatinib undergoes extensive metabolism, primarily by CYP3A4 and CYP3A5, with minor 

contributions from CYP2C19 and CYP2C8 to a variety of oxidated metabolites, none of which 

account for more than 14% of the dose recovered in the faeces or 10% of lapatinib concentration in 

plasma. 

 

Lapatinib inhibits CYP3A (Ki 0.6 to 2.3 µg/ml) and CYP2C8 (0.3 µg/ml) in vitro at clinically relevant 

concentrations. Lapatinib did not significantly inhibit the following enzymes in human liver 

microsomes: CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP2D6 or UGT enzymes (in vitro IC50 values were 

greater than or equal to 6.9 µg/ml). 

 



 

 20 

Elimination 

 

The half-life of lapatinib measured after single doses increases with increasing dose. However, daily 

dosing of lapatinib results in achievement of steady state within 6 to 7 days, indicating an effective 

half-life of 24 hours. Lapatinib is predominantly eliminated through metabolism by CYP3A4/5. 

Biliary excretion may also contribute to the elimination. The primary route of excretion for lapatinib 

and its metabolites is in faeces. Recovery of unchanged lapatinib in faeces accounts for a median 27% 

(range 3 to 67%) of an oral dose. Less than 2% of the administered oral dose (as lapatinib and 

metabolites) excreted in urine. 

 

Renal impairment 

 

Lapatinib pharmacokinetics have not been specifically studied in patients with renal impairment or in 

patients undergoing haemodialysis. Available data suggest that no dose adjustment is necessary in 

patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. 

 

Hepatic impairment 

 

The pharmacokinetics of lapatinib were examined in patients with moderate (n = 8) or severe (n = 4) 

hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh scores of 7-9, or greater than 9, respectively) and in 8 healthy control 

patients. Systemic exposure (AUC) to lapatinib after a single oral 100 mg dose increased 

approximately 56% and 85% in patients with moderate and severe hepatic impairment, respectively. 

Administration of lapatinib in patients with hepatic impairment should be undertaken with caution (see 

sections 4.2 and 4.4). 

 

5.3 Preclinical safety data 
 

Lapatinib was studied in pregnant rats and rabbits given oral doses of 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg/day. 

There were no teratogenic effects; however, minor anomalies (left-sided umbilical artery, cervical rib 

and precocious ossification) occurred in rats at ≥60 mg/kg/day (4 times the expected human clinical 

exposure). In rabbits, lapatinib was associated with maternal toxicity at 60 and 120 mg/kg/day (8% 

and 23% of the expected human clinical exposure, respectively) and abortions at 120 mg/kg/day. At 

≥60 mg/kg/day there were decreased foetal body weights, and minor skeletal variations. In the rat pre- 

and postnatal development study, a decrease in pup survival occurred between birth and postnatal 

day 21 at doses of 60 mg/kg/day or higher (5 times the expected human clinical exposure). The highest 

no-effect dose for this study was 20 mg/kg/day. 

 

In oral carcinogenicity studies with lapatinib, severe skin lesions were seen at the highest doses tested 

which produced exposures based on AUC up to 2-fold in mice and male rats, and up to 15-fold in 

female rats, compared to humans given 1250 mg of lapatinib once daily. There was no evidence of 

carcinogenicity in mice. In rats, the incidence of benign haemangioma of the mesenteric lymph nodes 

was higher in some groups than in concurrent controls. There was also an increase in renal infarcts and 

papillary necrosis in female rats at exposures 7 and 10-fold compared to humans given 1250 mg of 

lapatinib once daily. The relevance of these findings for humans is uncertain. 

 

There were no effects on male or female rat gonadal function, mating, or fertility at doses up to 

120 mg/kg/day (females) and up to 180 mg/kg/day (males) (8 and 3 times the expected human clinical 

exposure, respectively). The effect on human fertility is unknown. 

 

Lapatinib was not clastogenic or mutagenic in a battery of assays including the Chinese hamster 

chromosome aberration assay, the Ames assay, human lymphocyte chromosome aberration assay and 

an in vivo rat bone marrow chromosome aberration assay. 

 

 



 

 21 

6. PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS 

 

6.1 List of excipients 
 

Tablet core 

 

Microcrystalline cellulose 

Povidone (K30) 

Sodium starch glycolate (Type A) 

Magnesium stearate 

 

Tablet coating 

 

Hypromellose 

Titanium dioxide (E171) 

Macrogol (400) 

Polysorbate 80 

Iron oxide yellow (E172) 

Iron oxide red (E172) 

 

6.2 Incompatibilities 
 

Not applicable. 

 

6.3 Shelf life 
 

Blister packs 

 

2 years 

 

Bottles 

 

3 years 

 

6.4 Special precautions for storage 
 

Do not store above 30ºC. 

 

6.5 Nature and contents of container 

 

Tyverb is supplied in either blister packs or bottles. 

 

Blister packs 

 

Tyverb / capecitabine combination posology 

Each pack of Tyverb contains 70 film-coated tablets in foil blisters (polyamide / aluminium / 

polyvinyl chloride / aluminium) of 10 tablets each. Each foil has a perforation down the middle to 

allow the blisters to be separated into a daily dose of 5 tablets. 

 

Multipacks contain 140 (2 packs of 70) film-coated tablets. 

 

Tyverb / aromatase inhibitor combination posology 

Each pack of Tyverb contains 84 film-coated tablets in foil blisters (polyamide / aluminium / 

polyvinyl chloride / aluminium) of 12 tablets each. Each foil has a perforation down the middle to 

allow the blisters to be separated into a daily dose of 6 tablets. 

 



 

 22 

Bottles 

 

Tyverb is also supplied in high density polyethylene bottles (HDPE) with a child resistant 

polypropylene closure containing 70, 84, 105 or 140 film-coated tablets. 

 

Not all pack sizes may be marketed. 

 

6.6 Special precautions for disposal 
 

Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local 

requirements. 

 

 

7. MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

8. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

 

EU/1/07/440/001-007 

 

 

9. DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION 
 

Date of first authorisation: 10 June 2008 

Date of latest renewal: 19 September 2019 

 

 

10. DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT 

 

 

Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines 

Agency http://www.ema.europa.eu. 

 

  



 

 23 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANNEX II 
 

A. MANUFACTURERS RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH 

RELEASE 

 

B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY 

AND USE 

 

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE 

MARKETING AUTHORISATION 

 

D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND 

EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 



 

 24 

A. MANUFACTURERS RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE 

 

Name and address of the manufacturers responsible for batch release 

 

Glaxo Wellcome S.A. 

Avenida de Extremadura 3 

09400 Aranda de Duero 

Burgos 

Spain 

 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Roonstraße 25 

D-90429 Nuremberg 

Germany 

 

The printed package leaflet of the medicinal product must state the name and address of the 

manufacturer responsible for the release of the concerned batch. 

 

 

B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE 

 

Medicinal product subject to restricted medical prescription (see Annex I: Summary of Product 

Characteristics, section 4.2). 

 

 

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING 

AUTHORISATION 

 

 Periodic safety update reports (PSURs) 

 

The requirements for submission of PSURs for this medicinal product are set out in the list of Union 

reference dates (EURD list) provided for under Article 107c(7) of Directive 2001/83/EC and any 

subsequent updates published on the European medicines web-portal. 

 

 

D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND 

EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

 Risk management plan (RMP) 

 

The marketing authorisation holder (MAH) shall perform the required pharmacovigilance activities 

and interventions detailed in the agreed RMP presented in Module 1.8.2 of the marketing authorisation 

and any agreed subsequent updates of the RMP. 

 

An updated RMP should be submitted: 

 At the request of the European Medicines Agency; 

 Whenever the risk management system is modified, especially as the result of new information 

being received that may lead to a significant change to the benefit/risk profile or as the result of 

an important (pharmacovigilance or risk minimisation) milestone being reached. 

 

  



 

 25 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANNEX III 

 

LABELLING AND PACKAGE LEAFLET 

  



 

 26 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. LABELLING 

  



 

 27 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

 

OUTER CARTON (14 DAY, SINGLE PACK) 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Tyverb 250 mg film-coated tablets 

lapatinib 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

Each film-coated tablet contains lapatinib ditosylate monohydrate, equivalent to 250 mg lapatinib. 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Film-coated tablet 

 

70 film-coated tablets 

84 film-coated tablets 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

Oral use 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 30ºC. 

 

 



 

 28 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

 

EU/1/07/440/001  70 tablets 

EU/1/07/440/003  84 tablets 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

tyverb 250 mg 

 

 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

PC 

SN 

NN 
 

  



 

 29 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

 

OUTER CARTON (28-DAY, MULTIPACK) 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Tyverb 250 mg film-coated tablets 

lapatinib 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

Each film-coated tablet contains lapatinib ditosylate monohydrate, equivalent to 250 mg lapatinib. 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Film-coated tablet 

 

140 film-coated tablets 

Multipack: 140 (2 packs of 70) film-coated tablets. 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

Oral use 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 30ºC. 

 

 



 

 30 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

 

EU/1/07/440/002 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

tyverb 250 mg 

 

 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

PC 

SN 

NN 
 

  



 

 31 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

 

OUTER CARTON (14 DAY PACK, PART OF 28 DAY MULTIPACK without blue box) 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Tyverb 250 mg film-coated tablets 

lapatinib 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

Each film-coated tablet contains lapatinib ditosylate monohydrate, equivalent to 250 mg lapatinib. 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Film-coated tablet 

 

70 film-coated tablets 

 

Component of a multipack, cannot to be sold separately. 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

Oral use 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 30ºC. 

 

 



 

 32 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

 

EU/1/07/440/002 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

tyverb 250 mg 

 

 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

 

  



 

 33 

 

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON BLISTERS OR STRIPS 

 

BLISTERS 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Tyverb 250 mg tablets 

lapatinib 

 

 

2. NAME OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

 

 

3. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

4. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

5. OTHER 

 

  



 

 34 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING AND THE IMMEDIATE 

PACKAGING 

 

OUTER CARTON AND BOTTLE LABEL 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Tyverb 250 mg film-coated tablets 

lapatinib 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

Each film-coated tablet contains lapatinib ditosylate monohydrate, equivalent to 250 mg lapatinib. 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Film-coated tablet 

 

70 film-coated tablets 

84 film-coated tablets 

105 film-coated tablets 

140 film-coated tablets 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

Oral use 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 30ºC. 

 



 

 35 

 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

 

EU/1/07/440/004  70 tablets 

EU/1/07/440/005  140 tablets 

EU/1/07/440/006  84 tablets 

EU/1/07/440/007  105 tablets 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

tyverb 250 mg [folding box only] 

 

 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

[folding box only] 

 

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

[folding box only] 

PC 

SN 

NN 

 

  



 

 36 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B. PACKAGE LEAFLET 



 

 37 

Package leaflet: Information for the user 

 

Tyverb 250 mg film-coated tablets 

lapatinib 

 

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine because it contains 

important information for you. 

 Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again. 

 If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

 This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Don’t pass it on to others. It may harm them, 

even if their signs of illness seem the same as yours. 

 If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side 

effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4. 

 

What is in this leaflet 
 

1. What Tyverb is and what it is used for 

2. What you need to know before you take Tyverb 

3. How to take Tyverb 

4. Possible side effects 

5. How to store Tyverb 

6. Contents of the pack and other information 

 

 

1. What Tyverb is and what it is used for 

 

Tyverb is used to treat certain types of breast cancer (HER2-overexpressing) which have spread 

beyond the original tumour or to other organs (advanced or metastatic breast cancer). It may slow or 

stop cancer cells from growing, or may kill them. 

 

Tyverb is prescribed to be taken in combination with another anti-cancer medicine. 

 

Tyverb is prescribed in combination with capecitabine, for patients who have had treatment for 

advanced or metastatic breast cancer before. This previous treatment for metastatic breast cancer must 

have included trastuzumab. 

 

Tyverb is prescribed in combination with trastuzumab, for patients who have hormone receptor-

negative metastatic breast cancer and have had other treatment for advanced or metastatic breast 

cancer before. 

 

Tyverb is prescribed in combination with an aromatase inhibitor, for patients with hormone 

sensitive metastatic breast cancer (breast cancer that is more likely to grow in the presence of 

hormones), who are not currently intended for chemotherapy. 

 

Information about these medicines is described in separate patient information leaflets. Ask your 

doctor to give you information about these other medicines. 

 

 

2. What you need to know before you take Tyverb 

 

Do not take Tyverb 

 if you are allergic to lapatinib or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in 

Section 6). 

 



 

 38 

Take special care with Tyverb 

 

Your doctor will run tests to check that your heart is working properly before and during your 

treatment with Tyverb. 

 

Tell your doctor if you have any heart problems before you take Tyverb. 

 

Your doctor also needs to know before you take Tyverb: 

 if you have lung disease 

 if you have inflammation of the lung 

 if you have any liver problems 

 if you have any kidney problems 

 if you have diarrhoea (see section 4). 

 

Your doctor will run tests to check that your liver is working properly before and during your 

treatment with Tyverb. 

 

Tell your doctor if any of these apply to you. 

 

Serious skin reactions 

Serious skin reactions have been seen with Tyverb. Symptoms may include skin rash, blisters and skin 

peeling. 

 

Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you get any of these symptoms. 

 

Other medicines and Tyverb 

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other 

medicines. This includes herbal medicines and other medicines you bought without a prescription. 

 

It is especially important to tell your doctor if you are taking, or have recently taken any of the 

following medicines. Some medicines may affect the way Tyverb works or Tyverb may affect how 

other medicines work. These medicines include some medicines in the following groups: 

 

 St John’s Wort – a herb extract used to treat depression 

 erythromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole, rifabutin, rifampicin, 

telithromycin – medicines used to treat infections 

 cyclosporine – a medicine used to suppress the immune system for example after organ 

transplantations 

 ritonavir, saquinavir – medicines used to treat HIV 

 phenytoin, carbamazepine – medicines used to treat seizures 

 cisapride – a medicine used to treat certain digestive system problems 

 pimozide – a medicine used to treat certain mental health problems 

 quinidine, digoxin – medicines used to treat certain heart problems 

 repaglinide – a medicine used to treat diabetes 

 verapamil – a medicine used to treat high blood pressure or heart problems (angina) 

 nefazodone – a medicine used to treat depression 

 topotecan, paclitaxel, irinotecan, docetaxel – medicines used to treat certain types of cancer 

 rosuvastatin – a medicine used to treat high cholesterol 

 medicines that decrease stomach acidity - used to treat stomach ulcers or indigestion 

 

Tell your doctor if you are taking, or have recently taken, any of these. 

 

Your doctor will review the medicines you are currently taking to make sure you are not taking 

something that can’t be taken with the Tyverb. Your doctor will advise you whether an alternative is 

available. 

 



 

 39 

Tyverb with food and drink 

 

Don’t drink grapefruit juice while you are being treated with Tyverb. It can affect the way the 

medicine works. 
 

Pregnancy and breast-feeding 

 

The effect of Tyverb during pregnancy is not known. You should not use Tyverb if you are 

pregnant unless your doctor specifically recommends it. 
 

 If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor. 

 Use a reliable method of contraception to avoid becoming pregnant while you’re taking 

Tyverb and for at least 5 days after the last dose. 

 If you become pregnant during treatment with Tyverb, tell your doctor. 

 

It is not known whether Tyverb passes into breast-milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Tyverb and 

for at least 5 days after the last dose. 

 If you are breast-feeding or planning to breast-feed, tell your doctor. 

 

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking Tyverb if you are unsure. 

 

Driving and using machines 

 

You are responsible to decide if you are able to drive a motor vehicle or perform other tasks that 

require increased concentration. Because of the possible side effects of Tyverb, your ability to drive or 

operate machines could be affected. These effects are described in section 4, ‘Possible side effects’. 

 

Tyverb contains sodium 

 

This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per tablet, that is to say essentially ‘sodium-

free’. 

 

 

3. How to take Tyverb 

 

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or 

pharmacist if you’re not sure. 

 

Your doctor will decide on the correct dose of Tyverb depending on the type of breast cancer being 

treated. 

 

If you are prescribed Tyverb in combination with capecitabine, the usual dose is 5 Tyverb tablets a 

day, as a single dose. 

 

If you are prescribed Tyverb in combination with trastuzumab, the usual dose is 4 Tyverb tablets a 

day, as a single dose. 

 

If you are prescribed Tyverb in combination with an aromatase inhibitor, the usual dose is 

6 Tyverb tablets a day, as a single dose. 

 

Take the prescribed dose every day for as long as your doctor tells you to. 

 

Your doctor will advise you about the dose of your other anti-cancer medicine, and how to take it. 

 

  



 

 40 

Taking your tablets 

 

 Swallow the tablets whole with water, one after the other, at the same time each day. 

 Take Tyverb either at least one hour before or at least one hour after food. Take Tyverb at 

the same time in relation to food each day – for example, you could always take your tablet one 

hour before breakfast. 

 

While you are taking Tyverb 

 

 Depending on the side effects you experience, your doctor may recommend lowering your dose 

or temporarily stopping your treatment. 

 Your doctor will also carry out tests to check your heart and liver function before and during 

treatment with Tyverb. 

 

If you take too much Tyverb 

 

Contact a doctor or pharmacist immediately. If possible, show them the pack. 

 

If you forget to take Tyverb 

 

Don’t take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. Just take the next dose at the scheduled 

time. 

 

 

4. Possible side effects 
 

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. 

 

A severe allergic reaction is a rare side effect (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people) and may develop 

rapidly. 

Symptoms may include: 

 skin rash (including itchy, bumpy rash) 

 unusual wheezing, or difficulty in breathing 

 swollen eyelids, lips or tongue 

 pains in muscles or joints 

 collapse or blackout. 

 

Tell your doctor immediately if you get any of these symptoms. Don’t take any more tablets. 

 

Very common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people): 

 

 diarrhoea (which may make you dehydrated and lead to more severe complications) 

Tell your doctor immediately at the first sign of diarrhoea (loose stool), as it is important 

that this is treated right away. Also tell your doctor immediately if your diarrhoea 

worsens. There is more advice on reducing the risk of diarrhoea at the end of section 4. 

 

 rash, dry skin, itching 

Tell your doctor if you get a skin rash. There is more advice on reducing the risk of skin rash 

at the end of section 4. 

 

  



 

 41 

Other very common side effects 

 

 loss of appetite 

 feeling sick (nausea) 

 being sick (vomiting) 

 tiredness, feeling weak 

 indigestion 

 constipation 

 sore mouth/mouth ulcers 

 stomach pain 

 trouble sleeping 

 back pain 

 pain in hands and feet 

 joint or back pain 

 a skin reaction on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet (including tingling, numbness, 

pain, swelling or reddening) 

 cough, shortness of breath 

 headache 

 nose bleed 

 hot flush 

 unusual hair loss or thinning 

 

Tell your doctor if any of these side effects get severe or troublesome. 

 

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): 

 

 an effect on how your heart works 

 

In most cases, the effect on your heart will not have any symptoms. If you do experience symptoms 

associated with this side effect, these are likely to include an irregular heartbeat and shortness of 

breath. 

 

 liver problems, which may cause itching, yellow eyes or skin (jaundice), or dark urine or pain 

or discomfort in the right upper area of the stomach. 

 nail disorders – such as a tender infection and swelling of the cuticles 

 

Tell your doctor if you get any of these symptoms. 

 

Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): 

 

 treatment-induced lung inflammation, which may cause shortness of breath or cough 

Tell your doctor immediately if you get either of these symptoms. 

 

Other uncommon side effects include: 

 blood tests results that show changes in liver function (usually mild and temporary) 

 

Rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): 

 

 severe allergic reactions (see the beginning of section 4) 

 

  



 

 42 

The frequency of some side effects is not known (it cannot be estimated from the available data): 

 irregular heart-beat (change in the electrical activity of the heart) 

 severe skin reaction that might include: rash, red skin, blistering of the lips, eyes or mouth, skin 

peeling, fever or any combination of these 

 pulmonary arterial hypertension (increased blood pressure in the arteries (blood vessels) of the 

lungs) 

 

If you get other side effects 

 

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet. 

 

Reducing the risk of diarrhoea and skin rash 

 

Tyverb can cause severe diarrhoea 

 

If you suffer from diarrhoea while taking Tyverb: 

 

 drink plenty of fluids (8 to 10 glasses a day), such as water, sports drinks or other clear liquids 

 eat low-fat, high protein foods instead of fatty or spicy foods 

 eat cooked vegetables instead of raw vegetables and remove the skin from fruits before eating 

 avoid milk and milk products (including ice cream) 

 avoid herbal supplements (some may cause diarrhoea). 

 

Tell your doctor if your diarrhoea continues. 

 

Tyverb can cause skin rash 

 

Your doctor will check your skin before and during treatment. 

To care for sensitive skin: 

 

 wash with a soap-free cleanser 

 use fragrance free, hypoallergenic beauty products 

 use sunscreen (Sun Protection Factor [SPF] 30 or higher). 

 

Tell your doctor if you get a skin rash. 

 

Reporting of side effects 

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects 

not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system 

listed in Appendix V. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of 

this medicine. 

 

 

5. How to store Tyverb 

 

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the blister or bottle and the carton. 

 

Do not store above 30ºC. 

 

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 

throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help to protect the environment. 

 

 



 

 43 

6. Contents of the pack and other information 

 

What Tyverb contains 

 

- The active substance in Tyverb is lapatinib. Each film-coated tablet contains lapatinib ditosylate 

monohydrate, equivalent to 250 mg lapatinib. 

- The other ingredients are: microcrystalline cellulose, povidone (K30), sodium starch glycolate 

(Type A), magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol (400), 

polysorbate 80, iron oxide yellow (E172), and iron oxide red (E172). 

 

What Tyverb looks like and contents of the pack 

 

Tyverb film-coated tablets are oval, biconvex, yellow film-coated, with ‘GS XJG’ marked on one side. 

 

Tyverb is supplied in either blisters packs or bottles: 

 

Blister packs 

Each pack of Tyverb contains 70 or 84 tablets in aluminium foil blisters of 10 or 12 tablets each. Each 

foil has a perforation down the middle and can be divided into two blisters with 5 or 6 tablets in each, 

depending on the pack size. 

 

Tyverb is also available in multipacks containing 140 tablets that comprise 2 packs, each containing 

70 tablets. 

 

Bottles 

Tyverb is also available in plastic bottles containing 70, 84, 105 or 140 tablets. 

 

Not all pack sizes may be marketed. 

 

Marketing Authorisation Holder 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

Manufacturer 

Glaxo Wellcome S.A. 

Avenida de Extremadura 3 

09400 Aranda de Duero 

Burgos 

Spain 

 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Roonstraße 25 

D-90429 Nuremberg 

Germany 

 

  



 

 44 

For any information about this medicine, please contact the local representative of the Marketing 

Authorisation Holder: 

 

België/Belgique/Belgien 

Novartis Pharma N.V. 

Tél/Tel: +32 2 246 16 11 

 

Lietuva 

SIA Novartis Baltics Lietuvos filialas 

Tel: +370 5 269 16 50 

 

България 

Novartis Bulgaria EOOD 

Тел: +359 2 489 98 28 

 

Luxembourg/Luxemburg 

Novartis Pharma N.V. 

Tél/Tel: +32 2 246 16 11 

 

Česká republika 

Novartis s.r.o. 

Tel: +420 225 775 111 

 

Magyarország 

Novartis Hungária Kft. 

Tel.: +36 1 457 65 00 

Danmark 

Novartis Healthcare A/S 

Tlf: +45 39 16 84 00 

 

Malta 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Tel: +356 2122 2872 

Deutschland 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Tel: +49 911 273 0 

 

Nederland 

Novartis Pharma B.V. 

Tel: +31 88 04 52 555 

Eesti 

SIA Novartis Baltics Eesti filiaal 

Tel: +372 66 30 810 

 

Norge 

Novartis Norge AS 

Tlf: +47 23 05 20 00 

Ελλάδα 

Novartis (Hellas) A.E.B.E. 

Τηλ: +30 210 281 17 12 

 

Österreich 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Tel: +43 1 86 6570 

España 

Novartis Farmacéutica, S.A. 

Tel: +34 93 306 42 00 

 

Polska 

Novartis Poland Sp. z o.o. 

Tel.: +48 22 375 4888 

France 

Novartis Pharma S.A.S. 

Tél: +33 1 55 47 66 00 

 

Portugal 

Novartis Farma - Produtos Farmacêuticos, S.A. 

Tel: +351 21 000 8600 

Hrvatska 

Novartis Hrvatska d.o.o. 

Tel. +385 1 6274 220 

 

România 

Novartis Pharma Services Romania SRL 

Tel: +40 21 31299 01 

Ireland 

Novartis Ireland Limited 

Tel: +353 1 260 12 55 

 

Slovenija 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Tel: +386 1 300 75 50 

Ísland 

Vistor hf. 

Sími: +354 535 7000 

 

Slovenská republika 

Novartis Slovakia s.r.o. 

Tel: +421 2 5542 5439 

 

Italia 

Novartis Farma S.p.A. 

Tel: +39 02 96 54 1 

Suomi/Finland 

Novartis Finland Oy 

Puh/Tel: +358 (0)10 6133 200 

 



 

 45 

Κύπρος 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Τηλ: +357 22 690 690 

 

Sverige 

Novartis Sverige AB 

Tel: +46 8 732 32 00 

 

Latvija 

SIA Novartis Baltics 

Tel: +371 67 887 070 

 

United Kingdom 

Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd. 

Tel: +44 1276 698370 

 

 

This leaflet was last revised in 
 

Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency web site: 

http://www.ema.europa.eu. 

 


	SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS
	A. MANUFACTURERS RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE
	B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE
	C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION
	D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT
	A. LABELLING
	B. PACKAGE LEAFLET