Ponatinib for Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia

 What is Iclusig used for?

As a kinase inhibitor Iclusig is recommended for the treatment of adults patients with:

chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) who didn't get benefit from treatment with at least 2 prior kinase inhibitor medications. 

accelerated phase or blast phase CML, or Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) who are not able to take any other kinase inhibitor drugs. 

What are the side effects of iclusig? 

The most common side effects of Iclusig may include:

• fever
• nausea
• skin rash 
• joint pain 
• abdomen pain
• headache 
• constipation
• dry skin
• high blood pressure 
• tiredness
• bleeding
• low hemoglobin in the blood 
• liver problems
• low blood platelet counts
• inflammation of the pancreas

Report to your healthcare practitioner in case you experience any side effect that is persistent and bothers you. 

What is the recommended dosage of iclusig? 

The starting dose of Iclusig is 45 mg, which should be given orally once in a day. Reducing the iclusig dosage is considered for patients with chronic phase CML and accelerated phase CML who have achieved a major cytogenetic response. Iclusig tablets should be consumed with or without food. Tablets required to be swallowed whole.

What dosage forms and strength iclusig comes? 

This medication is available in the form of tablets as following strength:

• iclusig 15 mg tablet
• iclusig 30 mg tablet
• iclusig 45 mg tablet

Is ponatinib a chemotherapy drug?

Ponatinib mainly is a type of targeted cancer drug. It is also known by its brand name Iclusig. It blocks as well as interferes with a number of protein kinases. 

What are the drug interactions with iclusig? 

This drug may interact when it is used with other drugs. Some possible iclusig drug interactions are as follows:

Coadministration of carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, and St. John’s Wort (strong CYP3A inducers) together with iclusig tablets must be avoided. 

When using iclusig together with strong CYP3A inhibitors (e.g. ritonavir, indinavir, boceprevir, conivaptan, itraconazole, clarithromycin, nelfinavir, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, nefazodone, voriconazole), the recommended initial dose needs to be reduced. 

How much does iclusig cost? 

In India, the cost of iclusig is quite reasonable. The iclusig 45 mg price is around $17,299 for a supply of 30 tablets. Prices may vary depending on branded to non-branded (generic) drugs. 

Where can I get Iclusig at a best price? 

In order to get the best iclusig price, always go with a pharmaceutical wholesaler company that holds the WHO-GDP & ISO certification. 

How should I store Iclusig?

Iclusig tablets should be placed at room temperature between 68°F - 77°F (20°C-25°C). Keep these tablets and all medicines out of the reach of children.