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Home > Drug Category > Cancer Medications > Tasigna and Equivalent

Tasigna (Nilotinib) Information

Tasigna, which contains the active ingredient nilotinib, is a targeted therapy medication known as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It is primarily used to treat a specific type of blood cancer called Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) in both adults and children. It is often prescribed for patients newly diagnosed or for those who can no longer tolerate or have stopped responding to other leukemia treatments. The medication is taken by mouth as a capsule, typically twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. Take Tasigna on an empty stomach. You must not eat for at least 2 hours before taking the dose and for at least 1 hour after taking it. Regular use at the same time each day helps keep the medication at an effective level in the bloodstream to control the growth of cancer cells.

The mechanism of action of nilotinib involves blocking the signal of an abnormal protein called Bcr-Abl. This protein acts like a "switch" that tells leukemia cells to multiply uncontrollably. By binding to this protein and turning the switch off, Tasigna slows down or stops the production of diseased white blood cells, allowing the bone marrow to produce healthy cells again.

Tasigna Side Effects

Tasigna is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Commonly reported effects include nausea, constipation or diarrhea, headache, tiredness, itching, skin rash, and joint or muscle pain. Some patients may also notice mild hair thinning or symptoms similar to a common cold, such as a runny nose or sore throat.

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 low blood cell counts.
• Heart rhythm issues (QT prolongation): Feeling faint, severe dizziness, or a rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat.
• Liver or pancreas problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe pain in the upper stomach area.
• Severe allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, or throat; hives; or significant difficulty breathing.
• Signs of fluid retention: Sudden weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, or shortness of breath.
• Vascular issues: Numbness or coldness in the limbs, pain in the legs when walking, or sudden changes in speech or vision.

Tasigna Precautions

Do not use Tasigna if you are allergic to nilotinib or any other ingredients in the capsule. It is also contraindicated for patients with Congenital Long QT syndrome, uncorrected hypokalemia, and uncorrected hypomagnesemia. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history, especially if you have heart disease, a history of stroke, liver problems, pancreatitis, or if you have had a surgical procedure to remove your stomach (gastrectomy).

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal products like St. John's wort. Tasigna has many drug interactions, particularly with certain antibiotics, antifungals, and heart medications. Tasigna carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and sudden cardiac death. Electrocardiograms (ECGs) and blood electrolyte levels must be monitored before and during treatment.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Tasigna can cause 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 several weeks after the final dose. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Tasigna and for at least two weeks after the last dose, as it is unknown if the drug passes into breast milk and could harm the nursing infant.

Take Tasigna exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole with water; do not crush, break, or dissolve them. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice entirely, as they can dangerously increase the amount of medicine in your blood. If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never double the dose. Store the capsules at room temperature, away from moisture and light, and keep them in a safe place out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Tasigna?

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