Nilotinib (Brand Name: Tasigna)

What’s it used for?

• It is used to treat Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

How do I take it?

• It is often taken in 2 doses a day (about 12 hours apart).
• Take with a full glass of water.
• Take it on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food).
• Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule. 

What should I know before taking it?

• Tell your doctor, nurse, and pharmacist the names of all medicines you take. This includes over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
• Tell your doctor, nurse, and pharmacist if you have any allergies.
• Talk to your doctor about drinking alcohol.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to
  become pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or
  plan to breastfeed.
• Talk to your doctor before taking medicine that
  contains aspirin.
• Talk to your doctor before getting any vaccines, such as flu shots.
• Tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions.

Will I have to watch what I eat or drink?

• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking it.

What are the side effects?

How do I handle it safely?

• Wash your hands after handling this drug.
• Pregnant women should not handle this drug.

How do I store it?

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets. 

Will it interact with other medicines?

• Before you start any new medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist about drug interactions.

What’s this drug’s class?

• BCR-ABL Tyrosine Kinase inhibitor 

When do I call my doctor?

Call your doctor if you have any of these:

• Any bothersome side effects or any side effects that do not go away
• A temperature over 101°F or if your temperature stays over 100.4°F for more than an hour
• Any sign of heart attack or stroke, such as:
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Pain in your arm, back, neck, or jaw
  • Shortness of breath
  • Numbness on one side of the body
  • Difficulty talking
• Any abnormal bruising or bleeding, including:
  • Blood in your stool or black stools
  • Cough up or vomit blood
• Confusion
  • Feeling thirsty
  • Urinating more often
  • Feeling sleepy
• Any yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Swelling, rapid weight gain, or shortness of breath
• Any redness or pain in your arms or legs

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