Nilotinib
Nilotinib is a targeted cancer medicine for selected forms of chronic myeloid leukaemia. It can affect heart rhythm and blood vessels, so treatment requires specialist monitoring and exact administration instructions.
Key points
- Nilotinib is selected using the leukaemia subtype, treatment history and response monitoring; it is not interchangeable with every other CML medicine.
- Heart rhythm, electrolytes, liver function, blood counts and medicine interactions require review.
- Fainting, a fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain or sudden weakness needs urgent care.
Listings are for comparison only. Suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, stock, destination rules and prescription requirements.
What Nilotinib is used for
Nilotinib may be used for Philadelphia-chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukaemia when a specialist finds it appropriate. Molecular response is monitored over time.
How it works
Nilotinib inhibits the abnormal BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase that drives the growth of CML cells. It also affects other kinases, which contributes to both treatment effects and adverse effects.
Important safety checks
An ECG, electrolytes, blood counts and liver and metabolic tests may be required. Food can substantially change exposure, so the product’s timing instructions must be followed exactly. Grapefruit and many prescription, over-the-counter and herbal products can interact. Do not stop or alter treatment without the oncology team.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for fainting, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, sudden breathlessness, new one-sided weakness, a cold or painful limb, severe abdominal pain, unusual bleeding or fever with severe illness.