Where is Dasatinib used?
Dasatinib is a cancer medicine that slows the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. This is used to treat a type of cancer called Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). This is recommended for use in children and adults. This medication may also be used to treat Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children and adults.
Dasatinib can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. This is available as tablets with 20 mg, 50 mg, 70 mg, and 100 mg for oral administration. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this in 2006.
How does Dasatinib work?
Dasatinib is classified as a kinase inhibitor. Kinase inhibitors prevent the development of tumors. It is by decreasing the action of proteins that control cell division, survival, and growth. These proteins are usually present in larger numbers or are more active in cancer cells. By decreasing the action of these proteins, the survival, and growth of cancer cells are reduced.
How is Dasatinib taken?
The recommended dosage for this depends on your medical condition and response.
Dasatinib is usually taken from 100 mg to 180 mg once a day. It is to be taken by mouth and you may take it with or without food. Take it as a whole do not break or chew the tablet. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Use this exactly as it is directed by your doctor. Take it at the same time each day. To avoid some complications, do not twice the prescribed dosage.
Avoid taking antacids such as calcium carbonate, aluminum, or magnesium hydroxide within 2 hours before or after taking this medicine. These will prevent your body from fully absorbing this medicine. Also, avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit while using this medication unless your doctor says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
What are the possible side effects of Dasatinib?
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headache
- Mild skin rash
- Weakness
- Mouth sores
- Weight loss
- Tired feeling
- Body aches
- Muscle and joint pain or discomfort
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
Call your doctor right away if these happen:
- Chest pain
- Rapid or irregular heartbeats
- Bloody vomit or bloody stools
- Mental status changes
- Shortness of breath
- Severe weakness
- Swelling
- Rapid weight gain
What are the precautions in taking Dasatinib?
- You should not share this with others even if they have the same symptoms as yours.
- Inform your doctor if you have any current medications like vitamins or herbal supplements. Inform also your doctor if you have any allergies or medical history.
- This is only given to pregnant women when needed. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor first.
- Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine and for 2 weeks after your final dosage.
- If you are having surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking Dasatinib.
- You must know that this medicine may reduce fertility in men and women. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this medicine.
