BOSULIF (Bosutinib)

What is this medication?

Bosutinib, Bosulif
Antineoplastic Agent, BCR-ABL Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor

Bosutinib, Bosulif is officially indicated for chronic myelogenous leukemia

How does this medication work? 

Bosutinib, Bosulif is a BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitor that promotes CML, and also inhibits SRC family (including SRC, LYN, and HCK). Bosutinib, Bosulif has minimal activity against c-KIT and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), which are nonspecific targets associated with toxicity in other TKIs. Bosutinib, Bosulif has activity in 16 of 18 imatinib-resistant BCR-ABL mutations, with the exceptions of the T315I and V299L mutants

How should I take this medication? 

Newly-diagnosed chronic phase:
Usual (Oral): 400 mg once daily

Resistant or intolerant to prior therapy:
Usual (Oral): 500 mg once daily

How to Take: Take with food. Swallow tablet whole, do not cut, crush or break

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting Bosutinib, Bosulif make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you are pregnant, or breastfeeding. Bosutinib, Bosulif use has been associated with rare but serious adverse events such as bone marrow suppression, fluid retention/edema, GI toxicity, hepatotoxicity, hypersensitivity, pancreatitis, QT prolongation, and renal toxicity.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed.  Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication? 

Chest pain, edema, pruritus, skin rash, hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, diarrhea, increased serum lipase, nausea, vomiting, anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, increased serum alanine aminotransferase, increased serum aspartate aminotransferase, dizziness, fatigue, headache, arthralgia, asthenia, back pain, cough, dyspnea, nasopharyngitis, pleural effusion, respiratory tract infection, fever

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only the most common.