Uses of undefined

It is used to treat three stages of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) called ‘chronic phase’, ‘accelerated phase’, and ‘blast phase’ in patients who have already been treated with one or more tyrosine kinase inhibitors (medicines for CML which work in a similar way to Bosutinib) and became intolerant (no longer being benefited) to it. It is also used to treat newly-diagnosed chronic phase (CP) Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (Ph+ CML). 

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Bosutinib is available as oral tablets in 100 mg, 400 mg, and 500 mg. The drug will be prescribed by the healthcare professional. Your physician will decide on the dose and frequency based on the severity of the disease, weight, and height. For Newly-diagnosed chronic phase (Ph+) CML, 400 mg orally once daily with food will be prescribed initially. For managing Chronic, accelerated, or blast phase (Ph+) CML with resistance or intolerance to prior therapy, 500 mg orally once daily with food is given. The doctor may increase the dose up to 600 mg once a day or reduce it or interrupt treatment according to how the medicine works for you and based on the side effects.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

The drug may cause allergic reactions; notify your doctor if you see any signs of rash, itchy skin, redness, Swelling of your lips or tongue, sudden cough, and low blood pressure. Bosutinib causes infection. Inform your doctor immediately if you face any symptoms of infection or bleeding. Report the symptoms of decreased liver function, chest pain, and fluid buildup in the abdomen, face, and ankle areas to your doctor. It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning for pregnancy. This medicine may cause liver damage and kidney and heart problems; hence if you have any existing conditions, inform your doctor. 

Precautions

Do not take PPIs (Proton pump inhibitors such as pantoprazole, omeprazole, and lansoprazole) while using this medication because this will reduce the effectiveness of bosutinib. Consider talking with your physician about all the other prescribed, over-the-counter or herbal medications you take. If you take antacids or H2 blockers (such as famotidine and ranitidine), take these medications at least 2 hours before or after bosutinib. Inform your physician if you are allergic to bosutinib, its ingredients, or other medications. Bosutinib may increase your chances of getting infected. To lower the chances of getting infected, avoid contact with people affected by infections such as cold or flu.

Side Effects

The common side effects of bosutinib are abdomen pain, anemia (low red blood cell counts), low platelet counts, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, blood in your stools, tiredness, fever, cough, rash, headache, decreased platelet counts, tiredness, increased levels of liver enzymes, swelling of the ankles or swelling around the eyes,  joint or muscle pains,  bitter or metal taste in your mouth. This treatment can reduce the number of white blood cells in your blood. These cells fight infection. If the number of white blood cells is low, you will likely get an infection. 

Word Of Advice

Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Swallow the medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely.

Frequently Asked Question

•  How is Bosutinib given (administered)? 
• Bosutinib is administered orally (by mouth) in the form of a tablet.

•  How to store Bosutinib?
• Store Bosutinib at room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Prevent it from moisture and keep it out of reach from children and pets.

• What are the important symptoms I must report to a physician using Bosutinib?
• Inform your physician if you are likely to develop an infection, symptoms of swelling in the face and ankle, or any signs of liver damage.

• Can I breastfeed while taking bosutinib?
• Do not breastfeed while taking Bosutinib and at least 2 weeks after the treatment because the drug may secrete in the milk and cause harmful effects on the baby. 

• Will Bosutinib cause infertility?
• Yes, bosutinib could cause infertility. Consider discussing it with your doctor if you are planning to get pregnant.

• Are there any dietary restrictions I should follow while taking Bosutinib?
• Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking Bosutinib. This may cause the drug to become ineffective.

• Bosutinib should be taken with or without food?
• The medicine Bosutinib should be taken with food. Your doctor will decide the dose and frequency of the drug.