What is asciminib and what is it used for?

What is asciminib and what is it used for?

Asciminib is an anticancer medicine containing the active substance asciminib. It belongs to a class of medicines called protein kinase inhibitors. It is used to treat adult patients with Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukaemia in chronic phase (Ph+ CML-CP). In patients with Ph+ CML, the body produces too many abnormal white blood cells. Asciminib blocks the BCR::ABL1 protein produced by these abnormal white blood cells, thereby stopping the cancer cells from dividing and growing. This medicine is under additional monitoring to allow quick identification of new safety information. Patients can help by reporting any side effects. Read the package leaflet carefully before use and take the medicine as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

When should you not use asciminib?

Do not use asciminib if you are allergic to asciminib or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (such as lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, etc.). Allergic reactions may include rash, hives, difficulty breathing, or a drop in blood pressure. Before using, be sure to tell your doctor your complete allergy history. Furthermore, if your doctor has told you that you cannot tolerate certain sugars (such as lactose), consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Each tablet contains less than 1 mmol of sodium, essentially sodium-free, which is safe for patients who need to control their sodium intake.

Precautions before using asciminib

Before starting treatment with asciminib, tell your doctor if you have ever had or currently have severe upper abdominal pain (which may indicate pancreatitis); if you have ever had or might currently have hepatitis B infection, because asciminib may cause reactivation of hepatitis B virus – your doctor will check you carefully before treatment. During treatment, contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following: sudden bleeding or bruising, frequent infections with fever or sore throat (indicating bone marrow suppression); blood tests showing elevated lipase or amylase (indicating pancreatic injury); prolonged QT interval on ECG or pre-existing irregular heartbeat; low blood potassium or low blood magnesium; taking other medicines that may affect the heart; headache, chest pain, or shortness of breath (which may indicate high blood pressure). Your doctor will regularly monitor your blood cell counts, pancreatic enzymes, electrolytes, heart rhythm, and blood pressure.