Asciminib
Indications
Asciminib is a targeted cancer medicine used to treat adults with Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukaemia (Ph+ CML) in the chronic phase, including patients previously treated with other tyrosine kinase inhibitors and those with a specific mutation called T315I.
How It Works
CML is driven by an abnormal protein called BCR-ABL1, which tells blood cells to multiply out of control. Asciminib binds to a special pocket on this protein (the myristoyl pocket) and locks it in an inactive shape. Because it works at a different site from older medicines, it can still work when the cancer has become resistant to them.
Dosage and Administration
Take by mouth exactly as prescribed by the blood cancer specialist, on an empty stomach: avoid food for at least 2 hours before and 1 hour after each dose. Swallow tablets whole. The dose and whether it is taken once or twice a day depend on the patient's situation. The doctor may pause or lower the dose based on blood counts and side effects.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers such as Rifampicin, Carbamazepine and St John's Wort can reduce its effect.
- Some liquid medicines containing hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin, such as certain Itraconazole oral solutions, can reduce its absorption.
- It can raise levels of some medicines, such as Warfarin and some substrates of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4.
- Medicines that affect heart rhythm need care.
Contraindications
- Allergy to asciminib.
Side Effects
Common effects include low blood counts (platelets, white cells, red cells), tiredness, headache, muscle and joint pain, rash, diarrhoea, nausea, raised pancreatic enzymes, high blood pressure and respiratory infections.
Get urgent medical help for fever or signs of infection, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe stomach pain spreading to the back (possible pancreatitis), chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or very high blood pressure with headache or vision change.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Asciminib may harm an unborn baby. Women who can become pregnant need a pregnancy test before starting and should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the last dose, as advised by the doctor. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for a period afterwards.
Precautions and Warnings
- Regular blood counts, pancreatic enzymes, blood pressure and heart checks are needed.
- Tell the doctor about pancreatitis, heart disease, high blood pressure or liver problems.
- Avoid crowds and sick contacts when blood counts are low.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote. Seek medical help; treatment is supportive with blood count monitoring.
Therapeutic Class
Antineoplastic, BCR-ABL1 inhibitor (STAMP inhibitor, tyrosine kinase inhibitor).
Storage
Store below 30°C in the original pack, dry, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Asciminib