Dasatinib 20mg Tablets
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
To ensure you get the most benefit from your medication, follow these guidelines:
Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions carefully.
Take your medication at the same time every day to establish a routine.
You can take your medication with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, break, or crush it. If you have difficulty swallowing, consult your doctor for advice.
Continue taking your medication as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better.
Handling Your Medication
When handling your medication, take special precautions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on how to handle your medication safely.
Important Interactions
Do not take antacids within 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking your medication, as this may interfere with its effectiveness.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the quality and potency of your medication:
Store it at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
* Some brands of this medication require storage in the original container. Do not remove the anti-moisture cube or packet. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take dasatinib exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily, with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
- Do NOT crush, cut, or chew the tablets. Swallow them whole.
- Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking dasatinib, as they can increase the amount of medicine in your body.
- Avoid St. John's Wort, as it can decrease the amount of medicine in your body.
- Do not take antacids within 2 hours before or 2 hours after your dasatinib dose. Avoid stomach acid-reducing medicines like proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole) and H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine) completely, as they can significantly reduce dasatinib absorption.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- Report any new or worsening side effects to your doctor immediately.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
BLACK BOX WARNING
Side Effects
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Fever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection (due to low white blood cell count)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, black or tarry stools, red or dark urine, nosebleeds, or bleeding gums (due to low platelet count or bleeding risk)
- Shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, swelling in your ankles, feet, or legs, or rapid weight gain (signs of fluid retention or lung problems)
- Severe fatigue or dizziness (signs of anemia)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe stomach pain (signs of liver problems)
- Irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or fainting (signs of heart problems)
- Severe headache, confusion, or seizures (rare, but serious neurological effects)
Before Using This Medicine
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
Certain health conditions, such as low potassium or magnesium levels, which may affect your ability to take this medication safely.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: cimetidine, dexlansoprazole, esomeprazole, famotidine, lansoprazole, nizatidine, omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, or ranitidine.
Any other prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, natural products, or vitamins you are taking, as this medication can interact with various drugs, including those used to treat HIV, infections, or seizures.
* If you are breast-feeding, as you should not breast-feed while taking this medication and for 2 weeks after your last dose.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions or health problems that may be relevant to your treatment with this medication. Therefore, it is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications, health conditions, and any other relevant information to ensure your safety while taking this medication. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Regular monitoring of your blood work, heart function, and lung function is crucial, as directed by your doctor.
If you follow a lactose-free diet, consult your doctor, as some formulations of this medication may contain lactose. Additionally, avoid consuming grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
Blood-Related Risks
This medication may suppress the bone marrow's ability to produce necessary blood cells, increasing the risk of bleeding problems, infections, or anemia. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor. To minimize the risk of infection, practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and avoid close contact with individuals who have infections, colds, or flu.
You may also experience easier bleeding, so it is crucial to be cautious and avoid injuries. Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to reduce the risk of bleeding. Although rare, some bleeding problems can be life-threatening.
Respiratory Risks
This medication may increase the risk of developing a severe lung condition called pulmonary arterial hypertension, which can occur at any time during treatment, even after more than a year. Discuss this risk with your doctor.
Special Considerations
If you are 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
This medication has been shown to cause fertility problems in animal studies, which may affect your ability to conceive or father a child. If you are pregnant or may become pregnant, it is essential to handle this medication with care. Pregnant individuals should not handle crushed or broken tablets, and if accidental contact occurs, wash the area with soap and water immediately.
Pregnancy and Contraception
This medication may harm the unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. If you may become pregnant, use effective birth control while taking this medication and for 30 days after the last dose, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. If you become pregnant, notify your doctor promptly.
If your partner may become pregnant, use birth control while taking this medication and for 30 days after the last dose, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. If your partner becomes pregnant, inform the doctor immediately.
Pediatric Considerations
If you are administering this medication to a child, consult your doctor if the child's weight changes, as the dosage may need to be adjusted. This medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, so regular growth checks may be necessary. Discuss this with your doctor.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Exacerbation of known adverse effects, including myelosuppression (severe neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia)
- Severe fluid retention (pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, pulmonary edema)
- Significant hemorrhage
- Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., QT prolongation)
What to Do:
There is no specific antidote for dasatinib overdose. Management should consist of general supportive measures. Discontinue dasatinib and monitor the patient closely for adverse reactions. If necessary, treatment should be symptomatic. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) for further guidance.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, St. John's Wort)
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole)
Major Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, telithromycin, nefazodone, ritonavir, atazanavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir, tipranavir): May significantly increase dasatinib exposure. Consider alternative agents or dasatinib dose reduction.
- H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., famotidine, ranitidine, cimetidine): May decrease dasatinib absorption. Avoid or separate administration by at least 2 hours.
- Antacids (e.g., aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide): May decrease dasatinib absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Moderate Interactions
- Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin, diltiazem, verapamil, fluconazole, grapefruit juice): May increase dasatinib exposure. Monitor for adverse effects.
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants: Increased risk of bleeding due to dasatinib's potential to cause platelet dysfunction and hemorrhage. Monitor INR/bleeding parameters closely.
- Drugs that prolong QT interval (e.g., antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, macrolide antibiotics, fluoroquinolones): Additive risk of QT prolongation. Use with caution and monitor ECG.
Minor Interactions
- Not specifically categorized as minor, but any drug affecting gastric pH or CYP3A4 activity should be considered.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To establish baseline hematologic parameters and monitor for myelosuppression (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: To assess baseline hepatic function and monitor for hepatotoxicity.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: To assess baseline electrolyte balance, as imbalances can increase risk of QT prolongation.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: To assess baseline QT interval and cardiac rhythm, given the risk of QT prolongation.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: To establish baseline status and monitor for signs/symptoms of fluid retention (e.g., weight, edema, shortness of breath).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: Consider for patients with pre-existing cardiac or pulmonary conditions, or if pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is suspected.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, if indicated.
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Weekly for the first month, then monthly or as clinically indicated.
Target: Maintain ANC >1.0 x 10^9/L, Platelets >50 x 10^9/L. Dose adjustments may be needed for lower counts.
Action Threshold: Dose interruption or reduction for Grade 3/4 myelosuppression (e.g., ANC <1.0 x 10^9/L, Platelets <50 x 10^9/L).
Frequency: Monthly or as clinically indicated.
Target: Within normal limits or baseline.
Action Threshold: Dose interruption or reduction for Grade 3/4 elevations (e.g., ALT/AST >5 x ULN, Bilirubin >3 x ULN).
Frequency: Periodically, especially if on concomitant medications or with risk factors for electrolyte imbalance.
Target: Within normal limits.
Action Threshold: Correct imbalances promptly to minimize risk of QT prolongation.
Frequency: Regularly (e.g., weekly initially, then monthly or as needed).
Target: Stable weight, absence of new or worsening edema, dyspnea, or effusions.
Action Threshold: Prompt evaluation and management (e.g., diuretics, dose interruption/reduction) for significant fluid retention (e.g., pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, pulmonary edema, ascites).
Frequency: Periodically, especially if new cardiac symptoms or electrolyte abnormalities occur.
Target: Normal QT interval.
Action Threshold: Evaluate and manage for significant QT prolongation (e.g., QTc >500 ms).
Frequency: Ongoing clinical assessment at each visit.
Target: Absence of new or worsening dyspnea, fatigue, chest pain, or syncope.
Action Threshold: If suspected, perform echocardiogram and consider right heart catheterization. Discontinue dasatinib if PAH is confirmed.
Symptom Monitoring
- Fever, chills, signs of infection (due to myelosuppression)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising (due to thrombocytopenia or hemorrhage risk)
- Shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, swelling in ankles/legs, rapid weight gain (signs of fluid retention or PAH)
- Fatigue, weakness, dizziness (due to anemia or other adverse effects)
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
- Muscle pain, joint pain
- Skin rash
- Headache
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Dasatinib is classified as Pregnancy Category D, meaning there is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks. It can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with dasatinib and for 30 days after the last dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 90 days after the last dose.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
It is not known whether dasatinib is excreted in human milk. However, due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with dasatinib and for 2 weeks after the last dose.
Pediatric Use
Dasatinib is approved for pediatric patients with chronic phase CML and Ph+ ALL. Safety and efficacy have been established. Dosing is typically based on body surface area. Close monitoring for growth and development, as well as long-term adverse effects, is important.
Geriatric Use
No significant differences in safety or efficacy were observed between older and younger patients. However, patients 65 years of age and older may be more susceptible to fluid retention events, including pleural effusion, and should be monitored closely.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Dasatinib is a potent multi-targeted TKI effective in imatinib-resistant CML and Ph+ ALL, but requires careful management of side effects.
- Fluid retention, particularly pleural effusion, is a common and potentially serious side effect. Monitor patients closely for weight gain, dyspnea, and other signs. Diuretics may be used, and dose reduction or interruption may be necessary.
- Myelosuppression (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia) is frequent. Regular CBC monitoring is crucial, and dose adjustments or growth factor support may be needed.
- Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare but serious and potentially irreversible adverse event. Patients presenting with new or worsening dyspnea should be evaluated for PAH, and dasatinib should be discontinued if confirmed.
- Strict adherence to drug interaction guidelines is essential, especially regarding CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers and gastric pH-altering agents (PPIs, H2 blockers, antacids).
- Patients should be educated on the importance of reporting any new or worsening symptoms promptly.
Alternative Therapies
- Other BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors for CML/Ph+ ALL: Imatinib (Gleevec), Nilotinib (Tasigna), Bosutinib (Bosulif), Ponatinib (Iclusig), Asciminib (Scemblix).
- Chemotherapy (for Ph+ ALL, often in combination with TKIs)
- Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) (curative option for CML/Ph+ ALL, especially in advanced stages or TKI resistance)