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Sprycel (Dasatinib) Information

Sprycel, which contains the active ingredient dasatinib, is a targeted therapy medication known as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It is used to treat adults and children with Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). In cases of Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL), it is used for adults when other treatments are no longer effective, and for children in combination with chemotherapy. Sprycel is designed to treat leukemia by targeting proteins that allow cancer cells to grow. The medication is taken by mouth as a tablet, typically once daily. You can either take it in the morning or the evening, with or without food. To ensure the treatment is effective, it is important to take Sprycel at the same time every day to maintain a steady level of the drug in your system.

The mechanism of action of dasatinib involves blocking several types of proteins called tyrosine kinases, specifically the Bcr-Abl protein. In certain leukemias, this protein sends constant signals that tell white blood cells to divide and grow out of control. By inhibiting these signals, Sprycel prevents the production of cancerous cells and helps the bone marrow resume producing healthy blood cells.

Sprycel Side Effects

Sprycel is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Commonly reported effects include diarrhea, headache, muscle pain, tiredness (fatigue), nausea, and skin rash. Many patients also experience a puffy look or swelling in the face, eyelids, hands, or feet due to fluid retention.

More serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek help if you experience:
• Blood cell changes: Fever, chills, or easy bruising and bleeding, which may indicate a drop in white blood cells or platelets.
• Fluid around the lungs or heart: Sudden shortness of breath, a dry cough, or chest pain when breathing, which may indicate fluid buildup (pleural effusion).
• Heart rhythm issues: Feeling dizzy, fainting, or having a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Severe allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, or throat; hives; or significant difficulty breathing.
• Severe bleeding: Sudden severe headache, vomiting blood, or black, tarry stools.
• Tumour Lysis Syndrome: Confusion, muscle cramping, or decreased urination caused by the rapid breakdown of cancer cells.

Sprycel Precautions

Do not use Sprycel if you have a known allergy to dasatinib or any of the inactive ingredients in the medication. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart disease, liver problems, or a weakened immune system.

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, as Sprycel has significant drug interactions, particularly with stomach acid reducers. Do not take antacids within two hours of your Sprycel dose. More potent acid reducers, such as proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole), can prevent Sprycel from being absorbed and should generally be avoided. You should also tell your doctor if you take blood thinners, as Sprycel can increase the risk of bleeding. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Sprycel can cause serious harm to a developing fetus and should not be used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should use highly effective contraception during treatment and for at least 30 days after the final dose. Men with partners who can become pregnant should also use effective contraception during treatment and for 30 days after the last dose. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Sprycel and for two weeks after the last dose, as it could harm the nursing infant.

Take Sprycel exactly as prescribed. Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush, break, or chew them, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice, as it can dangerously increase the levels of Sprycel in your blood. If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next scheduled dose—never take two doses at once. Store the tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and light, and keep them safely out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Sprycel?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Sprycel.