Sprycel 140mg Tablets
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely. Take your medication at the same time every day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole - do not chew, break, or crush it. If you have difficulty swallowing, consult your doctor.
Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better. It's essential to handle this medication with care, so be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on proper handling.
When taking this medication, avoid taking antacids within 2 hours before or 2 hours after your dose.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom. Some brands of this medication require storage in the original container, so do not remove the anti-moisture cube or packet. If you're unsure about the storage requirements, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses at once or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take Sprycel once daily, at approximately the same time each day, with or without food.
- Do NOT take Sprycel with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as this can increase drug levels and side effects.
- Avoid antacids, H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., famotidine, ranitidine), and proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, esomeprazole) as they can reduce the absorption of Sprycel. If an antacid is necessary, take it at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after your Sprycel dose.
- Do not crush, cut, or chew the tablets. Swallow them whole.
- Do not stop taking Sprycel without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic 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
Side Effects
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Allergic reactions: Rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Infections: Fever, chills, severe sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, increased or discolored sputum, painful urination, mouth sores, or unhealing wounds.
Bleeding: Vomiting or coughing up blood, coffee ground-like vomit, blood in the urine, black, red, or tarry stools, gum bleeding, abnormal vaginal bleeding, unexplained bruises or bruising that worsens, or uncontrollable bleeding.
Electrolyte imbalances: Mood changes, confusion, muscle pain, cramps, or spasms, weakness, shakiness, balance problems, abnormal heartbeat, seizures, loss of appetite, or severe nausea and vomiting.
Blood pressure changes: Severe headaches or dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision.
Numbness or tingling: In the hands or feet.
Seizures: Convulsions or loss of consciousness.
Fluid retention: Swelling, weight gain, or breathing difficulties.
Severe skin reactions: Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), or other severe skin reactions, which may be life-threatening. Symptoms include red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; skin irritation (with or without fever); red or irritated eyes; or sores in the mouth, throat, nose, or eyes.
Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS): A potentially life-threatening condition that may occur in cancer patients. Symptoms include rapid or abnormal heartbeat, fainting, difficulty urinating, muscle weakness or cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or feeling sluggish.
Heart problems: Abnormal heartbeat (including prolonged QT interval), heart attack, or small strokes (TIAs). Symptoms include chest pain, rapid or abnormal heartbeat, shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, swelling in the arms or legs, weakness on one side of the body, confusion, slurred speech, balance problems, drooping on one side of the face, changes in vision, severe dizziness, or fainting.
Liver problems: Dark urine, fatigue, decreased appetite, nausea, stomach pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin and eyes.
Common Side Effects
Most people experience no side effects or only mild side effects. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or persist:
Constipation
Stomach pain
Headache
Fatigue or weakness
Muscle or joint pain
Pain in the arms or legs
* Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, or decreased appetite (common side effects that may be managed with medical guidance)
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Fever, chills, or other signs of infection
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe fatigue or weakness
- Shortness of breath, cough, or chest pain (signs of fluid retention or lung problems)
- Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Severe skin rash or blistering
- Yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine or pale stools
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Severe muscle pain or cramps
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, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
Certain health conditions, including low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood.
Additionally, tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
Vitamins
Specifically, inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications: cimetidine, dexlansoprazole, esomeprazole, famotidine, lansoprazole, nizatidine, omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, or ranitidine
* Certain medications used to treat HIV, infections, or seizures, as they may interact with this medication
Also, inform your doctor if you are breast-feeding. It is recommended that you do 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. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to discuss all your medications and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is crucial that you inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this drug. Regular monitoring of your blood work, heart function, and lung function is necessary, as directed by your doctor.
If you follow a lactose-free diet, consult with your doctor, as some formulations of this medication may contain lactose. Additionally, avoid consuming grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking this drug.
Blood-Related Risks
This medication may suppress the bone marrow's ability to produce essential blood cells, potentially leading to 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 experience an increased risk of bleeding, so it is essential to be cautious and avoid injuries. Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to reduce the risk of bleeding. Although rare, some bleeding complications can be life-threatening.
Respiratory Risks
This drug 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 of use. Consult with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Special Considerations
If you are 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
This drug 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 carefully. 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 drug and for 30 days after your 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 your last dose, unless otherwise advised by your doctor. If your partner becomes pregnant, inform the doctor immediately.
Pediatric Patients
If you are giving this medication to a child and their weight changes, consult with your doctor, as the dosage may need to be adjusted. This drug may affect growth in children and teenagers in some cases, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Myelosuppression (low blood counts)
- Fluid retention (e.g., pleural effusion, pericardial effusion)
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
What to Do:
There is no specific antidote for dasatinib overdose. Management should consist of general supportive measures. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) immediately for advice.
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, atazanavir, indinavir, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, voriconazole, grapefruit juice) - reduce dasatinib dose or avoid.
- H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., famotidine, ranitidine, cimetidine) - separate administration by at least 2 hours.
- Antacids (e.g., aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide) - separate administration by at least 2 hours.
- QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., quinidine, procainamide, disopyramide, amiodarone, sotalol, dofetilide, cisapride, pimozide, thioridazine, moxifloxacin, halofantrine) - use with caution, monitor ECG.
Moderate Interactions
- Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin, diltiazem, verapamil, fluconazole) - use with caution, consider dose reduction.
- Moderate CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., efavirenz, modafinil) - use with caution, consider dose increase.
Minor Interactions
- Not typically clinically significant interactions reported for minor severity.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To establish baseline hematologic parameters and monitor for myelosuppression (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To establish baseline hepatic function and monitor for hepatotoxicity.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To establish baseline renal function.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To establish baseline and monitor for abnormalities that can predispose to QTc prolongation.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To assess baseline QTc interval and identify pre-existing cardiac abnormalities.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Every 2 weeks for the first 3 months, then monthly or as clinically indicated.
Target: Maintain ANC > 1.0 x 10^9/L, Platelets > 50 x 10^9/L
Action Threshold: Dose interruption or reduction for Grade 3/4 myelosuppression (ANC < 1.0 x 10^9/L, Platelets < 50 x 10^9/L, Hemoglobin < 8.0 g/dL).
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: Monthly or as clinically indicated.
Target: Within normal limits or baseline
Action Threshold: Dose adjustment not typically needed for renal impairment, but monitor for worsening.
Frequency: Monthly or as clinically indicated.
Target: Within normal limits
Action Threshold: Correct hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia prior to and during therapy.
Frequency: Monitor for symptoms at each visit. Chest X-ray or echocardiogram as clinically indicated.
Target: Absence of significant effusions
Action Threshold: Dose interruption, reduction, or diuretics/steroids for symptomatic or Grade 3/4 fluid retention.
Frequency: Periodically, especially in patients with cardiac risk factors or on concomitant QT-prolonging medications.
Target: QTc < 450 ms (men), < 470 ms (women)
Action Threshold: Dose interruption or discontinuation for QTc > 500 ms or significant prolongation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Fever
- Chills
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Chest pain
- Swelling (especially in ankles, feet, face)
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Rash
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Dasatinib can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Based on animal studies and its mechanism of action, dasatinib is contraindicated during pregnancy. Women of reproductive potential should be advised to use effective contraception during treatment and for 30 days after the last dose.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
It is unknown if dasatinib is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, 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 newly diagnosed chronic phase Ph+ CML. Dosing is based on body surface area. Safety and efficacy in other pediatric indications are not established. Pediatric patients may experience similar adverse events as adults, including myelosuppression and fluid retention.
Geriatric Use
No significant differences in efficacy were observed between older and younger patients. However, patients ≥65 years of age may have an increased incidence of fluid retention (e.g., pleural effusion, pericardial effusion) and cardiac events compared to younger patients. Close monitoring is recommended.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Dasatinib's absorption is pH-dependent; avoid concomitant use with PPIs. If antacids are needed, separate administration by at least 2 hours.
- Fluid retention, particularly pleural effusion, is a common and potentially serious side effect. Monitor patients closely for symptoms (e.g., dyspnea, cough, chest pain) and consider chest X-ray or echocardiogram if suspected.
- Myelosuppression (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia) is frequent and may require dose interruptions or reductions. Monitor CBCs regularly.
- Dasatinib can prolong the QTc interval. Correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia prior to and during therapy. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or on other QT-prolonging medications.
- Patients should be advised to report any signs of bleeding, infection, or cardiac symptoms immediately.
Alternative Therapies
- Imatinib (Gleevec)
- Nilotinib (Tasigna)
- Bosutinib (Bosulif)
- Ponatinib (Iclusig)
- Olverembatinib (Olinvo - approved in some regions, e.g., China)