Why is this medication prescribed?

Bosulif (bosutinib) is a medication primarily prescribed to treat a type of blood cancer called chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Specifically, it’s used for patients who have failed prior therapy or have developed resistance to other treatments. Bosulif belongs to a class of medications called tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which work by blocking the action of an abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to grow.

How should this medicine be used?

The dosage and administration of Bosulif should be determined by a healthcare professional, typically an oncologist, based on factors such as the patient’s overall health, the stage of the disease, and any other medications they may be taking. However, generally, Bosulif is taken orally, usually once daily with food. It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions carefully to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects.

It’s also crucial for patients to inform their healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions they have before starting Bosulif, as it can interact with certain drugs and may not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function tests may be necessary during treatment with Bosulif to monitor for any potential side effects or complications.

Other uses for this medicine

Besides its primary use in treating CML, there may be other off-label or investigational uses for Bosulif, but these would need to be discussed with a healthcare professional. Using Bosulif for any condition other than the one it is prescribed for should only be done under the guidance of a doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Bosulif or any medication, it’s important to follow special precautions to ensure its safe and effective use. Here are some general precautions to keep in mind:

• Inform your healthcare provider: Before starting Bosulif, inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially liver or kidney problems, heart disease, or any bleeding disorders. Also, disclose all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, as they may interact with Bosulif.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Bosulif may harm an unborn baby, so it’s crucial to use effective contraception during treatment and for some time after discontinuing the medication. Additionally, it’s not recommended to breastfeed while taking Bosulif, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely monitor your blood counts and liver function regularly during treatment with Bosulif to check for any potential side effects or complications. It’s essential to attend all scheduled appointments and follow your doctor’s recommendations for monitoring.
• Side effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Bosulif, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rash, fatigue, headache, and fluid retention. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent side effects.
• Avoid grapefruit: Bosulif should not be taken with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can increase the levels of Bosulif in your blood and potentially lead to side effects.
• Avoid alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking Bosulif, as it may increase the risk of liver problems.
• Storage: Store Bosulif at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about Bosulif or your treatment plan. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual health needs and circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions for Bosulif, it’s generally recommended to take Bosulif with food, as this can help reduce the risk of certain side effects like stomach upset. However, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Bosulif beyond avoiding grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Bosulif, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance. It’s important to try to take Bosulif consistently as prescribed to maintain its effectiveness in treating your condition.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Bosulif (bosutinib) can cause various side effects, some of which may be common, while others are less common but more severe. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Here’s a list of possible side effects associated with Bosulif:

Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Fever
• Fluid retention (edema), leading to swelling in the ankles, feet, or hands
• Low blood cell counts (anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia), which can increase the risk of infection, bleeding, and fatigue

Less common but potentially serious side effects may include:

• Liver problems, such as elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis
• Bleeding problems, including gastrointestinal bleeding or bruising
• Heart problems, such as irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) or heart failure
• Lung problems, including inflammation (pneumonitis) or difficulty breathing
• Kidney problems, such as decreased kidney function or kidney failure
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Skin reactions, such as severe rash or blistering
• Fluid buildup around the lungs (pleural effusion) or in the abdomen (ascites)
• Tumor lysis syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening complication that can occur when cancer cells break down rapidly, releasing their contents into the bloodstream
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

These lists are not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, individual responses to Bosulif can vary, so not everyone will experience the same side effects. If you experience any unusual or bothersome symptoms while taking Bosulif, it’s essential to notify your healthcare provider promptly. They can help manage side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of Bosulif, here’s what you should know:

• Storage: Store Bosulif at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets. Do not store Bosulif in the bathroom or in the refrigerator unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Bosulif tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on how to dispose of medication safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency situation related to Bosulif, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include severe diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, fainting, or difficulty breathing. It’s essential to take Bosulif exactly as prescribed to avoid the risk of overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding dosage, administration, and any necessary monitoring during treatment.
• Attend all scheduled appointments for blood tests and follow-up visits with your healthcare provider.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions you have before starting Bosulif, as it may interact with certain drugs or may not be suitable for everyone.
• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Bosulif, as it can interact with the medication and increase the risk of side effects.
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly, as they may indicate a need for adjustments to your treatment plan.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Bosulif, you can help ensure safe and effective treatment for your condition. If you have any questions or concerns about Bosulif or your treatment plan, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.