Tasigna Capsules (Nilotinib Capsules) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Leukemia facts

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells.
While the exact cause(s) of leukemia is not known, risk factors have been identified.
Leukemias are grouped by how quickly the disease develops (acute or chronic) as well as by the type of blood cell that is affected (lymphocytes or myelocytes). The four main types of leukemia include acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myelocytic leukemia (AML), and chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML).
People with leukemia are at significantly increased risk for developing infections, anemia, and bleeding. Other symptoms and signs include easy bruising, weight loss, night sweats, and unexplained fevers.
The diagnosis of leukemia is supported by findings of the medical history and examination, and examining blood and bone marrow samples under a microscope.
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Tasigna Capsules User Reviews >>

Tasigna Capsules

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Tasigna Capsules Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking nilotinib (Tasigna Capsules)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to nilotinib, or if you have:

low blood levels of potassium or magnesium; or
a history of "Long QT syndrome."

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

heart disease or heart rhythm disorder;
liver disease;
a personal history of pancreatitis; or
a family history of "Long QT syndrome."

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use nilotinib without your doctor's consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

It is not known whether nilotinib passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication while you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medication to anyone younger than 18 years old.

Nilotinib capsules may contain lactose. Talk to your doctor before using this medication if you have galactose intolerance, or severe problems with lactose (milk sugar).

How should I take nilotinib (Tasigna Capsules)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take nilotinib on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Take this medicine with a large glass of water.

Do not break or open a nilotinib capsule. Swallow the pill whole.

Nilotinib is usually taken every 12 hours.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood and bone marrow will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your heart rate may also be checked using electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG). This machine measures electrical activity of the heart. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Do not stop using nilotinib or change your dose without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking the medication too soon, your condition may get worse.

Store nilotinib at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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