WARNING

Asenapine is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The risks of taking Asenapine include:

• Neurological Effects: Possible side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and motor control issues. It may also lead to more severe conditions like tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder.
• Metabolic Effects: Asenapine can cause weight gain, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol levels.
• Cardiovascular Effects: It may lead to increased heart rate, blood pressure changes, and in rare cases, more serious heart issues.
• Sedation: Users may experience significant drowsiness or sedation.
• Allergic Reactions: Some people might have allergic reactions, including rash or swelling.
• Interaction Risks: Asenapine can interact with other medications, affecting their efficacy or increasing side effects.

Always consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive understanding of risks and benefits tailored to individual health needs.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Asciminib is prescribed primarily for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in adults. It is specifically used for patients with CML who have a particular genetic mutation known as the BCR-ABL1 T315I mutation. This mutation can make the leukemia resistant to other treatments. Asciminib works by targeting and inhibiting the activity of the BCR-ABL1 protein, which is involved in the growth of cancer cells in CML. This medication helps to reduce the number of cancer cells and manage the symptoms associated with the disease.

How should this medicine be used?

How Asciminib Should Be Used:

• Dosage: The dosage and schedule are determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and response to treatment. It’s typically taken orally in the form of a tablet.
• Administration: Take Asciminib exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken by mouth, with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day to help remember.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular blood tests and follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your response to the medication and adjust the dose if necessary.
• Avoid Certain Foods/Drugs: Be cautious about potential interactions with other medications or foods, and inform your healthcare provider about all other drugs you are taking.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any side effects or concerns during treatment.

Other uses for this medicine

Asciminib is primarily used for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) that is resistant or intolerant to other therapies. Its use in other conditions is not well-established or widely approved, and it’s typically prescribed specifically for CML.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Asciminib:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies, especially to asciminib or its components.
• Medical History: Disclose your full medical history to your doctor, particularly any liver issues, heart conditions, or previous cancers.
• Drug Interactions: Be cautious about interactions with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Inform your healthcare provider about all substances you are taking.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular blood tests and monitoring are essential to track the drug’s effectiveness and detect any potential side effects early.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Asciminib’s safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established. Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Side Effects: Report any side effects, especially severe or unusual ones, such as significant fatigue, bleeding, or signs of infection.
• Avoid Certain Activities: Due to possible side effects like dizziness or drowsiness, be cautious when engaging in activities that require full alertness, such as driving.

Following these precautions will help manage your treatment safely and effectively. Always adhere to your healthcare provider’s guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Asciminib. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help support overall health and potentially minimize side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you are unsure about what to do after missing a dose, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Asciminib can cause a range of side effects. Common and less serious side effects include:

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach, which may lead to vomiting.
• Headache: Persistent or severe headaches.
• Muscle or Joint Pain: Discomfort or pain in muscles or joints.
• Rash: Skin reactions or rashes.

More serious side effects can include:

• Liver Problems: Elevated liver enzymes or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Heart Issues: Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat.
• Bleeding: Unusual bleeding or bruising.
• Infections: Increased risk of infections due to effects on the immune system.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Signs include severe rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing.

If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments will help manage side effects and adjust treatment as necessary.

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

Storage and Disposal of Asciminib:

• Storage:
  • Store Asciminib at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Typically, this means keeping it in a cool, dry place.
  • Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of Asciminib according to local regulations. Many communities have drug take-back programs or disposal kiosks.
  • Avoid flushing the medication down the toilet or pouring it into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so by your pharmacist or local waste management guidelines.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of an overdose may include severe drowsiness, confusion, or other unusual reactions.
• Contact Emergency Services: If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Provide Information: Be ready to provide information about the medication, including the amount taken and the time it was taken.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Check-ups: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and tests to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and check for side effects.
• Inform Your Healthcare Provider: Keep your healthcare provider informed about any other medications, supplements, or health conditions that could interact with Asciminib.
• Avoid Self-Medication: Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Adherence to Treatment: Take Asciminib exactly as prescribed to ensure the best possible outcome from your treatment.

If you have any further questions or concerns about Asciminib, your healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide additional guidance tailored to your specific situation.