In a nutshell
This study looked at the management of side effects of bosutinib (Bosulif) in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia. Researchers found that bosutinib was safe in the treatment of patients in whom other medications have failed.
Some background
Chronic myeloid leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow. It can lead to an abnormal immune system. It is often treated with drugs that target certain proteins on cancer cells. Over time, these drugs may lose effectiveness. Bosutinib may have many side effects that can stop patients from taking this drug. It is important to research the safety and effectiveness of newer drugs to treat CML such as bosutinib.
Methods & findings
A review of recent studies on the safety of bosutinib for CML was carried out.
In one trial that showed the effectiveness of bosutinib, side effects included diarrhea (70.1%), nausea (35.1%), low platelet count (blood cells involved in clotting; 35.1%), and abnormal liver blood tests (22.8 – 30.6%). Side effects were similar when bosutinib was given as a first-line or second-line agent.
Dietary advice before and after treatment is important to manage diarrhea. Avoiding dairy and high-fat and spicy food is recommended. Nausea and vomiting may be managed with anti-sickness drugs.
Abnormal liver tests can be managed by measuring them in a blood test before started bosutinib. Also by reducing alcohol and medications that harm the liver.
The bottom line
The study concluded that bosutinib is linked with many common side effects which can be managed.
The fine print
This study looked at only a small amount of research and data. Larger studies may be needed to confirm results.
What’s next?
If you have side effects relating to bosutinib treatment, talk to your doctor about measured to manage them.
Published By :
Journal of hematology & oncology
Date :
Dec 27, 2018
