Tasigna (Nilotinib)

Tasigna (Nilotinib) is a prescription medication used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia-CML (a type of blood cancer) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adults and children over the age of one year old. Nilotinib belongs to the class of medications called a signal transduction inhibitor - protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor. This medication works by interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. Tasigna is usually prescribed after the other medications have been tried without success.

Manufacturer Information

The common side effects of Tasigna may include constipation, cough, diarrhea, feeling tired, headache, nausea, night sweats, pain in your bones, spine, joints, or muscles, rash, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, temporary hair loss, and vomiting.

Seek emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction. Contact your doctor right away or get emergency medical help if you have any symptoms of a serious heart problem. Call your doctor immediately if you have:

• Bleeding in the brain (sudden headache, confusion, vision problems, dizziness);
• Low blood cell counts;
• Signs of decreased blood flow;
• Signs of tumor cell breakdown;
• Swelling, feeling short of breath, weight gain;
• Unusual bleeding

You should not use Tasigna if you are allergic to Nilotinib, or if you have a heart rhythm disorder called QT syndrome, or low blood levels of potassium or magnesium. Before you start taking this medication, talk to your doctor about your medical history especially if you have ever had:

• A stroke;
• Bleeding problems;
• Blood circulation problems in your legs;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood levels of potassium or magnesium;
• Pancreatitis;
• Personal or family history of heart disease or heartbeat problems, or long QT syndrome;
• Total gastrectomy

Avoid grapefruit products while taking Tasigna. Do not take a stomach acid reducer within 10 hours before or 2 hours after you take Tasigna. Avoid taking antacid that contains aluminum, magnesium, or simethicone within two hours before or after you take Tasigna. This medication can pass into body fluids. Wear rubber gloves while helping patients. Wash hands before and after removing the gloves and wash soiled clothing and linens separately from other laundry. Do not use Tasigna if you are pregnant. You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment. Do not breastfeed while taking Tasigna and for at least 14 days after your last dose. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Nilotinib and other medications.

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