Information
Tasigna, generically known as nilotinib, is a prescription medication used in the treatment of certain types of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a form of blood cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which work by blocking the action of a specific enzyme, tyrosine kinase, that's responsible for the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells. By inhibiting this enzyme, Tasigna helps to slow down or stop the proliferation of cancer cells, thereby managing the progression of the disease. It is specifically used in adult and pediatric patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-positive CML in the chronic phase or those who have been resistant or intolerant to prior therapy that included imatinib, another TKI. Tasigna is taken orally and requires careful monitoring for potential side effects, including cardiovascular issues, pancreatitis, and liver function abnormalities.