Nilotinib
Brand Names
TasignaWhat is Nilotinib
Nilotinib is a medicine that is used to treat a type of blood cancer called Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It refers to a class of medications called kinase inhibitors and works by blocking the action of the abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply. This helps to stop or slow the spread of cancer cells.
Side effects of Nilotinib
Side effects of Nilotinib are the followings:
- rash;
- itching;
- nausea;
- vomiting;
- diarrhea;
- constipation;
- heartburn;
- gas;
- loss of appetite;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- tiredness;
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep;
- night sweats;
- muscle cramps;
- back, bone, joint, limb or muscle pain;
- hair loss;
- dry or reddened skin;
- numbness, burning or tingling in the hands or feet.
But if you have any of these serious symptoms it is necessary to visit your doctor immediately:
- unexplained bleeding or bruising;
- blood in urine or stool;
- unexplained weakness;
- fever, sore throat, chills or other signs of infection;
- shortness of breath;
- swelling of hands, ankles, feet or face;
- sudden stomach area pain;
- yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Indication
Nilotinib is used to treat a type of blood cancer called Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
Precautions
Before using Nilotinib you should inform your doctor if you have:
- heart disease or heart rhythm disorder;
- liver disease;
- a personal history of pancreatitis;
- a family history of Long QT syndrome;
- if your stomach has been surgically removed (total gastrectomy).
You should not take this medication if you have:
- low blood levels of potassium or magnesium;
- a history of Long QT syndrome.
Dosage forms
The standard dosage is 300 mg twice daily.
