Nilotinib
Accelerated Phase Myeloid Leukemia, Chronic-Phase Myeloid Leukemia
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
Definite
Pharmaceutical Class
Kinase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
nilotinib
Summary
Nilotinib is used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia, which is a type of cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow. It helps control the disease and can lead to remission, which means a decrease or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer.
Nilotinib works by blocking a protein called tyrosine kinase, which promotes cancer cell growth. By inhibiting this protein, Nilotinib helps stop the multiplication of cancer cells, effectively managing the disease.
The usual starting dose for adults is 300 mg taken twice daily, about 12 hours apart, on an empty stomach. It's important to swallow the capsules whole with water and avoid eating for at least 2 hours before and 1 hour after taking it.
Common side effects of Nilotinib include nausea, rash, and fatigue, which means feeling very tired. These effects can vary from person to person, and it's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.
Nilotinib can cause heart problems, including QT prolongation, which affects heart rhythm. It may also increase the risk of liver problems. Regular monitoring is necessary, and it's contraindicated in patients with long QT syndrome, which affects heart rhythm.
Indications and Purpose
How does Nilotinib work?
Nilotinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which works by blocking a protein that promotes cancer cell growth. Think of it like turning off a switch that allows cancer cells to multiply. By inhibiting this protein, Nilotinib helps control the growth of cancer cells in chronic myeloid leukemia, which is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. This action helps manage the disease and can lead to remission, improving health outcomes for patients.
Is Nilotinib effective?
Nilotinib is effective for treating certain types of cancer, such as chronic myeloid leukemia, which is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It works by inhibiting a protein that promotes cancer cell growth. Clinical studies show Nilotinib significantly improves health outcomes in patients with this condition. It helps control the disease and can lead to remission. Your doctor will monitor your progress with regular tests to ensure the medication is working effectively.
What is Nilotinib?
Nilotinib is a medication used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia, which is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It belongs to a class of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which work by blocking a protein that promotes cancer cell growth. Nilotinib helps control the disease and can lead to remission. It's used as a long-term treatment to manage this chronic condition. Your doctor will monitor your progress with regular tests to ensure the medication is working effectively.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Nilotinib?
Nilotinib is usually a long-term medication for managing chronic conditions like chronic myeloid leukemia, which is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. You'll typically take Nilotinib every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health.
How do I dispose of Nilotinib?
To dispose of Nilotinib, take unused medicine to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Nilotinib?
Take Nilotinib exactly as your doctor prescribes. It's usually taken twice daily, about 12 hours apart, on an empty stomach. Avoid eating for at least 2 hours before and 1 hour after taking it. Swallow the capsules whole with water; do not crush them. If you miss a dose, skip it and take the next one at the regular time. Do not double up doses. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can interact with Nilotinib. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take for Nilotinib to start working?
Nilotinib starts working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. For chronic myeloid leukemia, which is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, you might see some improvement in blood tests within weeks. The full therapeutic effect may take several months. How quickly the medication works can depend on your overall health and response to treatment. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Nilotinib?
Store Nilotinib at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in its original container with the lid tightly closed. Do not store it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect the medication's effectiveness. Always keep Nilotinib out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication. Follow your pharmacist's instructions for safe storage.
What is the usual dose of Nilotinib?
The usual starting dose of Nilotinib for adults is 300 mg taken twice daily. It's important to take it on an empty stomach, about 12 hours apart. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and any side effects. The maximum recommended dose is 400 mg twice daily. Dose adjustments may be necessary for special populations, such as those with liver problems. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Nilotinib with other prescription drugs?
Nilotinib can interact with several medications, increasing the risk of adverse effects. Drugs that affect heart rhythm, like certain antiarrhythmics, can increase the risk of QT prolongation, which affects heart rhythm. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, like ketoconazole, can increase Nilotinib levels, leading to toxicity. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. They can help manage potential interactions and ensure your treatment remains safe and effective. Regular monitoring is essential.
Can Nilotinib be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Nilotinib is not recommended while breastfeeding. There is limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk, but it may pose risks to the baby. If you're taking Nilotinib and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options. They can help you find a treatment plan that allows you to nurse your baby safely. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding medication use while breastfeeding.
Can Nilotinib be taken safely while pregnant?
Nilotinib is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby. There is limited information on its safety in pregnant women, but animal studies suggest possible harm. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby. Always follow your doctor's advice.
Does Nilotinib have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Nilotinib can cause side effects like nausea, rash, and fatigue, which are common. Serious adverse effects include heart problems and liver issues. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to Nilotinib and suggest appropriate actions. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are essential for managing adverse effects.
Does Nilotinib have any safety warnings?
Yes, Nilotinib has important safety warnings. It can cause heart problems, including QT prolongation, which affects heart rhythm. Regular heart monitoring is necessary. Nilotinib may also increase the risk of liver problems, so liver function tests are important. Not following these warnings can lead to serious health issues. Always adhere to your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms immediately. Your doctor will guide you on how to use Nilotinib safely.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Nilotinib?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Nilotinib. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems, which Nilotinib can also affect. Drinking alcohol may worsen side effects like nausea or dizziness. If you choose to drink occasionally, limit your alcohol intake and watch for warning signs like unusual fatigue or stomach pain. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Nilotinib to get personalized advice based on your health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Nilotinib?
You can exercise while taking Nilotinib, but be mindful of your body's response. Nilotinib can cause fatigue or dizziness, which might affect your exercise capacity. If you feel dizzy or unusually tired during physical activity, slow down or stop and rest. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Most people can maintain their regular exercise routine while taking Nilotinib, but check with your doctor if you have concerns about your specific situation.
Is it safe to stop Nilotinib?
Stopping Nilotinib suddenly can be risky. It's used long-term for chronic conditions like cancer. Stopping without medical advice can worsen your condition. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Nilotinib. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are essential.
Is Nilotinib addictive?
Nilotinib is not addictive or habit-forming. It does not cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Nilotinib works by targeting cancer cells and does not affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Nilotinib doesn't carry this risk while managing your health condition.
Is Nilotinib safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more vulnerable to the side effects of Nilotinib, such as heart and liver problems. Regular monitoring is important to ensure safety. Your doctor will assess the risks and benefits of Nilotinib for elderly patients and may adjust the dose accordingly. It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. They can help manage side effects and ensure the treatment remains safe and effective.
What are the most common side effects of Nilotinib?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Nilotinib include nausea, rash, and fatigue. These effects vary from person to person. If you experience new symptoms after starting Nilotinib, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. It's important to talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the symptoms are related to Nilotinib and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking Nilotinib?
Nilotinib should not be used if you have a known allergy to it or its ingredients. It's contraindicated in patients with long QT syndrome, which affects heart rhythm. Caution is needed for those with liver problems, as Nilotinib can affect liver function. Always inform your doctor about your medical history and any other medications you are taking. They can help determine if Nilotinib is safe for you and monitor for potential risks.
Forms / Brands
