Tasigna

Tasigna, known chemically as nilotinib, is a medication primarily used to treat Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) in both adults and children over the age of one. It is particularly effective for patients who have either not responded to or cannot tolerate previous therapy with imatinib. Tasigna is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that works by blocking proteins that promote cancer cell growth, leading to the death of these cells. It must be taken on an empty stomach to avoid serious side effects. The drug also carries a boxed warning from the FDA regarding the risk of QT prolongation and sudden death. You will need a prescription from your doctor to buy affordable Tasigna capsules online from Canada.

Tasigna, or nilotinib, is an FDA-approved prescription drug designed for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) in adults and children aged one year and older. It is particularly recommended for patients newly diagnosed with Ph+ CML in its chronic phase, as well as for those who have previously received treatment with another cancer drug, imatinib, but either did not respond adequately or experienced intolerable side effects.

This medication belongs to a class known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which operate by targeting specific proteins in the cancerous cells, inhibiting their ability to grow and spread, ultimately leading to their death. This effect helps restore healthier blood cell levels, though it may take several months for benefits to become evident. Tasigna is available in capsule form in various strengths, including 50 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg. Adults typically start with a dosage of 300 mg twice daily, while children’s doses are calculated based on body surface area.

Importantly, Tasigna for leukemia treatment should be taken on an empty stomach to prevent an increase in drug levels that could raise the risk of severe side effects, such as QT prolongation—an abnormal heart rhythm that can lead to sudden death. The drug comes with the FDA’s most serious boxed warnings about these risks. Healthcare providers must regularly monitor patients’ heart rhythm and mineral levels. Despite these risks, Tasigna represents a critical treatment option for managing Ph+ CML effectively when other therapies fail. If you want to buy affordable Tasigna capsules online from Canada, you can ask your doctor for a prescription.

Tasigna is a prescription medication approved for treating Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in adults and children aged 1 year and older.

• In Adults:
  • Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML (Chronic Phase): Tasigna is used to treat newly diagnosed CML in its initial stage.
  • Ph+ CML (Chronic or Accelerated Phase): Tasigna is prescribed for those who have previously been treated with the cancer drug imatinib (Gleevec) but found it ineffective or experienced intolerable side effects.
• In Children:
  • Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML (Chronic Phase): Tasigna is used to treat newly diagnosed CML in its initial stage.
  • Ph+ CML (Chronic Phase) with Previous TKI Treatment: Tasigna is used for children who have been treated with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) before, but the treatment was ineffective or caused intolerable side effects.
• Off-Label Use: Tasigna is sometimes used to treat Parkinson’s disease, though this is not an officially approved use.

This medicine comes in capsule form and is available in the following strengths:

• Tasigna 50 mg capsule
• Tasigna 150 mg capsule
• Tasigna 200 mg capsule

What Is the Typical Dosage of Tasigna?

The dosage of Tasigna for chronic myeloid leukemia management can vary depending on factors such as your age, medical history, and how your body responds to the treatment. To make sure you’re using it safely and effectively, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor, as well as the information in the patient leaflet and any guidance from your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

The exact dosage you’ll take depends on the strength of the medication prescribed and the form you’re given. Your doctor will consider how often you need to take the medication, how much to take each time, and how long you should continue the treatment.

Dosage for Adults with Ph+ CML

The recommended adult dosage of Tasigna for chronic myeloid leukemia management depends on their previous treatment history.

• Newly Diagnosed Adults:
• Dosage: 300 mg twice daily
• Adults Who Didn’t Respond to or Couldn’t Tolerate Previous Treatments:

• Dosage: 400 mg twice daily

Dosage for Children with Ph+ CML

The dosage for children with Ph+ CML is calculated based on their body surface area (BSA). The steps to calculate the appropriate dose are as follows:

• Calculate Body Surface Area (BSA):
  • Multiply the child’s height in centimeters (cm) by their weight in kilograms (kg). Use the following conversions if needed: 1 inch = 2.54 cm and 1 pound (lb) = 0.45 kg.
  • Divide the result by 3,600.
  • Find the square root of the resulting number to get the BSA in square meters (m²).
• Determine Tasigna Dosage:
  • Multiply the child’s BSA by 230 mg/m².
  • Round the resulting dose to the nearest 50 mg (Tasigna capsules come in 50-mg strengths).
  • Example Calculation: For a child who is 36 inches tall (91.44 cm) and weighs 50 pounds (22.68 kg):
    • Calculate BSA: (91.44 cm * 22.68 kg) / 3,600 = 0.575 m² (approx)
    • Determine dosage: 0.575 m² * 230 mg/m² = 132.25 mg, rounded to 150 mg
    • Dosage: 150 mg twice daily
• Final Dosage Determination: Although these calculations provide a general guideline, the child’s doctor will determine the exact dosage based on individual factors.

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

Before using Tasigna for leukemia treatment, it’s important to read the patient information leaflet and medication guide carefully. Here are some important steps to follow when taking this medication:

• • Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage of Tasigna for cancer treatment based on several factors, including:
    • The type and severity of the condition being treated
    • Your age, height, and weight (especially for children)
    • Any other medical conditions you have
    • Other medications you are taking
    • How your body responds to Tasigna
  • Typically, you will start on the standard dosage, which may be adjusted over time to find the most effective dose with the least side effects. The goal is to prescribe the smallest effective dose.
• Instructions for Use:
• • Dosage Timing: Take Tasigna twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, to maintain a consistent level in your body. Setting a reminder on your phone or using a medication timer can help ensure you don’t miss a dose.
  • Taking Medicine with Food: Always take Tasigna on an empty stomach. Eating food with Tasigna can increase the drug levels in your body, raising the risk of serious side effects like QT prolongation (abnormal heart rhythm) and sudden death. Avoid eating for at least 2 hours before and 1 hour after taking Tasigna.
  • Crushing or Chewing Capsules: Do not crush, split, or chew Tasigna capsules. If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, you can open them and sprinkle the contents onto 1 teaspoon of applesauce. Consume the applesauce within 15 minutes of adding the drug.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

Tasigna contains the active ingredient nilotinib, which is part of a group of drugs known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). It functions by attaching to certain proteins on the tyrosine kinase enzyme. These proteins are produced by cells with the BCR-ABL gene. When Tasigna binds to these proteins, it stops the cells from sending signals that promote the growth and spread of cancer cells. By halting the growth and spread of these cancer cells, Tasigna causes them to die off. This process helps return your blood cells to healthier levels. Tasigna for cancer treatment starts to work shortly after the first dose, but you might not feel the benefits until after several months of treatment.

Common Side Effects of Tasigna: Most of these side effects are mild and may go away within a few days or weeks. However, if they become more severe or don’t improve, it’s important to consult your doctor or pharmacist. Here are some of the more common mild side effects you might experience with Tasigna for leukemia treatment:

• Itchy Skin: You may feel like your skin is itchy or irritated, which can be uncomfortable but usually not serious.
• Cough: A dry or productive cough could develop as a result of taking the medication.
• Common Cold: You may experience symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, or congestion, similar to the common cold.
• Constipation: You may find it difficult to have regular bowel movements or feel bloated and uncomfortable.
• Fatigue (Lack of Energy): It’s normal to feel unusually tired or low on energy, even after resting.
• Night Sweats: You might experience excessive sweating while sleeping, which can leave you feeling damp or uncomfortable.
• Nausea: Feeling queasy or sick to your stomach may occur, and it could lead to vomiting in some cases.
• Rash: Skin rashes can develop, often as small red bumps or patches. It’s important to check with your doctor if the rash seems unusual or bothersome.
• Vomiting: Some people may throw up, especially if they feel nauseous or have an upset stomach.
• Diarrhea: Loose or frequent stools can occur, which may lead to dehydration if it lasts too long.
• Headache: A mild headache is a common side effect that could range from mild discomfort to more noticeable pain.
• Fever: A slight increase in body temperature is possible, which might feel like having a mild illness.
• Joint Pain: Some people experience aches or pain in their joints, which can be bothersome but usually improves with time.

Serious Side Effects of Tasigna: While serious side effects from Tasigna for chronic myeloid leukemia management are uncommon, it’s important to be aware of them. If you experience any of the following signs, contact your doctor immediately. These side effects can be serious and require prompt medical attention:

• Blockages in Your Blood Vessels or Heart: Tasigna can cause problems with blood flow, which may affect your heart or blood vessels. Symptoms to watch out for include:
  • Feeling Numb or Weak: You might feel weakness or numbness, especially in your arms or legs.
  • Chest Pain: Pain or tightness in your chest can be a sign of heart problems.
  • A Cold Feeling in Your Leg: If your leg feels cold or has a strange sensation, it might indicate a blood flow problem.
  • Pain in Your Leg: Any unexplained leg pain, especially if it feels sharp or persistent, should be checked.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling winded without physical activity could be a sign of a serious issue.
  • Change in the Color of the Skin on Your Leg: If the skin on your leg turns pale, blue, or another unusual color, it may indicate a blood flow problem.
  • Trouble Walking: Difficulty walking or balance problems could be linked to circulation issues.
• Blood Disorders (Anemia and Neutropenia): Tasigna can affect your blood, leading to low red blood cell count (anemia) or low white blood cell count (neutropenia). Symptoms may include:
  • Fatigue (Lack of Energy): You may feel more tired than usual or struggle to get through daily activities.
  • Weakness: A general sense of weakness, especially in your muscles.
  • Shortness of Breath: You might get winded or feel breathless even after light activity.
  • Frequent Bruising: Easy bruising or bruises that take a long time to heal.
  • Weakened Immune System: If your immune system is weakened, you might get sick more often.
  • Fever: A high temperature or fever that doesn’t go away.
• Pancreatitis: This is an inflammation of the pancreas, and it can be serious. Watch for these signs:
  • Lack of Appetite: A sudden loss of appetite or disinterest in food.
  • Nausea: Feeling sick or queasy in your stomach.
  • Fever: A temperature spike or feeling unusually hot.
  • Vomiting: Throwing up, especially with nausea.
  • Belly Pain: Severe pain in the stomach area.
• QT Prolongation & Sudden Death: Tasigna can affect your heart’s rhythm, which can sometimes lead to serious heart problems or even sudden death.
• Tumor Lysis Syndrome: This is a rare but serious condition that can happen when cancer cells break down quickly. Symptoms may include:
  • Seizures: Sudden, uncontrolled shaking of the body.
  • Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach.
  • Muscle Cramps: Sudden muscle pain or cramps, especially in the legs.
  • Fatigue (Lack of Energy): Feeling very tired or weak.
  • Vomiting: Throwing up, often with nausea.
  • Diarrhea: Frequent loose or watery stools.
  • Abnormal Heart Rhythm or Rate: Your heart may start beating irregularly or too fast or slow.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: Problems with your body’s balance of salts can cause:
  • Confusion: Feeling disoriented or mentally unclear.
  • Abnormal Heart Rhythm or Rate: Your heart could start to beat irregularly.
  • Muscle Cramps: Painful cramps in your muscles.
  • General Weakness: Overall tiredness or lack of strength.
• Severe Bleeding: If you have trouble stopping bleeding, or if you notice signs of bleeding that don’t stop, it’s important to seek medical attention:
  • Changes in Vision: Sudden blurry or distorted vision.
  • Fatigue (Lack of Energy): Feeling drained or exhausted.
  • Severe Headache: A headache that’s worse than usual or persistent.
  • Bleeding That Doesn’t Stop: Unusual or severe bleeding that’s hard to control.
  • Confusion: Feeling mentally foggy or unclear.
• Fluid Retention (Severe Edema): Tasigna for cancer treatment can cause your body to retain too much fluid, leading to swelling. Signs include:
  • Swelling in Your Belly, Arms, or Legs: Noticeable swelling, especially in your belly, arms, or legs.
  • Shortness of Breath: Trouble breathing due to fluid buildup.
  • Unexplained or Rapid Weight Gain: A sudden increase in weight could indicate fluid retention.
• Allergic Reaction: If you have any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, or swelling, seek immediate medical attention.
• Liver Effects, Like Liver Damage: Tasigna can affect your liver, and you might experience signs such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or pain in the upper right side of your abdomen.
• Slowed Growth in Children: If you are giving Tasigna for leukemia treatment to a child, monitor their growth. Slowed growth or development should be reported to a doctor.

[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Before you buy Tasigna online or start using it, discuss your medical history with your doctor. Tasigna may be unsuitable if you have certain health conditions or other factors. These include:

• Low Levels of Potassium or Magnesium: Having low levels of potassium or magnesium can increase your risk of serious heart problems while taking Tasigna. 
• Liver Problems: If you have liver issues, you may be at a higher risk of serious side effects from Tasigna. 
• Cardiovascular Disease: If you have cardiovascular risk factors, such as atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in your arteries), you may have an increased risk of serious blockages in your heart or arteries during Tasigna treatment.
• History of Pancreatitis: If you’ve had pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) in the past, you may have a higher risk of developing pancreatitis while on Tasigna.
• Surgical Removal of Stomach or Intestines: If you’ve had surgery to remove parts or all of your stomach or intestines, you may be at a greater risk of serious side effects from Tasigna. 
• Certain Sugar Intolerances: If you have significant issues digesting or processing certain types of milk sugars, Tasigna may not be suitable for you.

What Is the Black Box Warning for Nilotinib?

This drug has boxed warnings, which are the most serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These warnings alert doctors and patients about the potentially dangerous effects of the drug. Tasigna has boxed warnings for causing an abnormal heart rhythm called QT prolongation and sudden death.

Tasigna can cause QT prolongation, leading to serious side effects like fainting, seizures, and even death. Because of this, Tasigna for cancer treatment should not be taken by people who already have QT prolongation or low levels of potassium or magnesium. Before and during Tasigna treatment, your doctor will order tests to check your heart rhythm and your potassium and magnesium levels to ensure Tasigna is safe for you.

Additionally, Tasigna should not be taken with other drugs that can cause QT prolongation. It should also be avoided with drugs that increase Tasigna levels in your body, known as strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Tasigna should be taken on an empty stomach. You should avoid eating food for 2 hours before and 1 hour after taking your Tasigna dose. This is because taking Tasigna for leukemia treatment with food increases the amount of the drug absorbed into your body, raising your risk for QT prolongation.

When you buy Tasigna online or start using it, patients should discuss every risk and benefit with their medical practitioner. Here are some of the precautions that you can take before using Tasigna for cancer treatment:

• Tasigna and Pregnancy: It’s unclear if Tasigna is safe to use during pregnancy because no studies have been done with pregnant people using this drug. However, studies on animals have shown that Tasigna can cause serious harm to an unborn baby when given to a pregnant animal. Although results from animal studies don’t always match what happens in humans, this potential risk suggests it’s best to avoid taking Tasigna during pregnancy.
• Tasigna and birth control: Tasigna for chronic myeloid leukemia management can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Therefore, you should avoid becoming pregnant while taking Tasigna.
  • For Females Using Tasigna: If you are a female who can become pregnant, you should use effective birth control while taking Tasigna. Continue using birth control for at least 14 days after your last dose of the medication.
  • For Males Using Tasigna: The manufacturer of Tasigna has not specified if males need to use birth control during treatment. 
• Tasigna and Breastfeeding: It’s not known if Tasigna passes into human breast milk or what effect it might have on a breastfed child. However, animal studies have shown that Tasigna does pass into animal breast milk. Although animal studies don’t always predict what will happen in humans, it is recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking Tasigna. This is because the drug might cause serious side effects in a breastfed child. Continue to avoid breastfeeding for at least 14 days after your last dose of the medication.

If you miss a dose of Tasigna for leukemia treatment, it’s important to follow the instructions on how to handle the missed dose. Here’s what you need to know:

• If you miss a dose of Tasigna, skip the missed dose.
• Take your next scheduled dose at the usual time.
• Do not take more than one dose to compensate for the missed dose.

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

Taking more than the recommended dose of Tasigna for cancer treatment can cause serious side effects. Do not use more Tasigna than your doctor advises. If you believe you have taken too much Tasigna, contact your doctor immediately.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

Proper storage of Tasigna for chronic myeloid leukemia management is important to ensure it remains safe and effective. If you choose to buy Tasigna online or from any pharmacy, make sure to follow these simple storage guidelines:

• Store Tasigna tablets at room temperature (about 77°F/25°C) in a tightly sealed container away from light.
• Do not store this medication in damp or wet areas like bathrooms.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional the proper disposal of unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

Tasigna can interact with various medications and certain supplements and foods. These interactions can have different effects. For example, some interactions might reduce the effectiveness of a drug, while others can increase side effects or make them more severe. Here are some lists of medications that may interact with Tasigna:

Tasigna and Medications for Heartburn or GERD

Taking Tasigna for leukemia treatment with certain medications used to treat heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can decrease the amount of Tasigna in your body, which may make it less effective in treating your condition. Here, we outline the different types of heartburn or GERD medications and their compatibility with Tasigna:

• Tasigna and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Taking Tasigna with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) is not recommended, which are commonly used to treat GERD and peptic ulcer disease. Examples of PPIs include:
  • Prevacid (lansoprazole)
  • Prilosec (omeprazole)
  • Protonix (pantoprazole)
  • Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)
  • Nexium (esomeprazole)
• Tasigna and H2 Blockers: Only use an H2 blocker with Tasigna if your doctor approves it. If prescribed, take the H2 blocker either 10 hours before or 2 hours after your Tasigna dose to minimize interaction. Examples of H2 blockers include:
  • Pepcid (famotidine)
  • Tagamet HB (cimetidine)
  • Zantac (ranitidine)
  • Axid AR (nizatidine)
• Tasigna and Antacids: Antacids may be a safer alternative to PPIs, which are over-the-counter products for treating heartburn or indigestion. However, like H2 blockers, antacids can reduce the effectiveness of Tasigna for cancer treatment. Common antacids include:
  • Pepto-Bismol (bismuth salicylate)
  • Tums, Alka-Seltzer, Rolaids (calcium carbonate)
  • Mylanta (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide/simethicone)

Tasigna and Certain Antidepressants

Using Tasigna for chronic myeloid leukemia management in combination with specific antidepressants may increase your risk of experiencing QT prolongation, which is an abnormal heart rhythm condition that can lead to severe and potentially deadly heart issues. Here are some antidepressants that could elevate your risk of heart problems when taken with Tasigna:

• Lexapro (escitalopram)
• Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL (bupropion)
• Prozac (fluoxetine)
• Celexa (citalopram)

Tasigna and Certain Heart Medications

Combining Tasigna with specific heart medications can increase your risk of developing QT prolongation, an abnormal heart rhythm that could lead to severe heart issues. Here are some heart medications that, if taken with Tasigna, could significantly increase your risk of serious heart problems:

• Cardizem, Cartia XT (diltiazem)
• Calan, Verelan (verapamil)
• Pacerone, Nexterone (amiodarone)
• Betapace, Sorine (sotalol)

Tasigna and Certain Anti-infectives

Using Tasigna alongside certain medications that treat infections can lead to higher levels of Tasigna in your body, increasing the likelihood of experiencing serious side effects. One notable side effect is QT prolongation, an abnormal heart rhythm that can be severe and potentially fatal. Examples of antibiotics that can heighten the risk of serious side effects, including QT prolongation, when used with Tasigna, are:

• Cipro (ciprofloxacin)
• Biaxin XL (clarithromycin)
• Avelox (moxifloxacin)
• Levofloxacin (levofloxacin)

Examples of antifungals that also pose a similar risk when taken with Tasigna include:

• Onmel, Sporanox (itraconazole)
• Vfend (voriconazole)
• Extina, Xolegel (ketoconazole)
• Noxafil (posaconazole)

What Are the Other Interactions to Tasigna?

There are several other factors beyond medications that can affect how the drug works. These include certain foods, beverages, herbal remedies, and lifestyle choices. Here’s how they can impact your treatment:

• Tasigna and Alcohol: There is no direct interaction known between Tasigna and alcohol. However, both Tasigna and alcohol can cause liver issues independently. Drinking alcohol while on Tasigna might increase the risk of liver damage. 
• Tasigna and Herbs and Supplements: Certain supplements can alter the effectiveness of Tasigna. For instance, St. John’s wort can decrease the levels of Tasigna in your body, reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, it’s advisable not to take St. John’s wort while you are on Tasigna. Conversely, some supplements like curcumin (found in turmeric) and ginkgo biloba can increase the levels of Tasigna, potentially leading to serious side effects. It is recommended to avoid these supplements during your treatment. 
• Tasigna and Foods: Consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice can change how much Tasigna is absorbed into your body. To avoid this interaction, do not consume grapefruit in any form while taking Tasigna. 

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Tasigna. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

There are other medications available that can treat chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and some might be more suitable for you than others. If you’re looking for an alternative to Tasigna for leukemia treatment, discussing this with your doctor is important. They can provide information about other drugs that might be effective for your condition. Examples of these drugs include:

• Synribo (omacetaxine)
• Sprycel (dasatinib)
• Bosulif (bosutinib)
• Gleevec (imatinib)
• Iclusig (ponatinib)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Tasigna can be quite expensive when purchased at retail prices. To help make Tasigna more affordable, discount options are available, such as manufacturer coupons or rebates, although these may not always be easily accessible. For U.S. residents, another cost-effective option is to buy Tasigna online from Canadian pharmacies, which can offer significant savings. A reputable source for this is Polar Bear Meds. Customers buying affordable Tasigna capsules from Canada online can use the Tasigna coupon code “WELCOMEPB10” at checkout to receive a 10% discount on their first order. Additionally, joining our referral program can provide a free coupon for your next purchase, offering further financial benefits.

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