Introduction: Understanding Bosulif and Its Role in Cancer Care
Bosulif (bosutinib) is a cancer therapy used to target and treat Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia. Those in the chronic phase and with a newly diagnosed, resistant, or intolerant condition may benefit taking the medication.
Also, adults who have accelerated, or have blast phase Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia that is resistant or intolerant to prior treatment may find the medication useful in treating their condition.
In this article, we’ll discuss what Bosulif is used to treat, how it works in CML treatment, cover common side effects, and help you understand what to expect during your bosutinib CML treatment.
What Is Bosulif and What Is It Used For?
What is Bosulif (bosutinib)?
As mentioned above, Bosulif is a targeted therapy used to treat those with Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia. It is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) approved for the treatment of Ph+ CML.
What is Bosulif used for?
First FDA-approved on September 4, 2012, Bosulif is specialized for treating both adults and children with Ph+ CML, and may be prescribed to newly diagnosed patients with Ph+ CML in the chronic stage. Those whose condition is resistant or intolerant to other treatments may also benefit from Bosutinib.
How Does Bosulif Work in CML Treatment?
What is PH+ CML?
Ph+ CML is a diagnosis attributed to when 2 chromosomes abnormally fuse. This forms the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome, which creates an abnormal gene.
The gene then produces an abnormal BCR-ABL1 protein.
Due to this protein, abnormal white blood cells grow uncontrollably. Over time, the abnormal white blood cells will take up space in the bloodstream, reducing available space for blood cells. Because of the reduced number of healthy blood cells and the increased number of abnormal white blood cells, a person with Ph+ CML is at increased risk of infections and anemia.
These can result in easy bruising and bleeding that takes longer than normal to stop.
How does a bosutinib CML treatment work?
Bosutinib works by inhibiting a specific protein to help slow the growth of CML cells. By inhibiting the BCR-ABL kinase, the abnormal protein produced by the abnormal gene resulting from 2 chromosomes improperly fusing, it stops or slows the growth of CML cells.
Not only does Bosulif target the BCR-ABL kinase, but it also inhibits Src, Lyn, and Hck. These three are part of the Src family of kinases.
By targeting specific proteins, collateral damage to otherwise healthy cells is limited, the medication is a viable option for those needing treatment for their Ph+ CML.
How Bosulif Is Taken and What Patients Should Expect
Those looking to take Bosulif must consult their doctor and obtain a prescription. Follow all directions on the prescription label and read all medication guides before taking the medication. Use the medication exactly as directed and as prescribed by your doctor.
How Bosulif is Taken
Typically, it is taken once daily with food. This helps to increase the amount of medication absorbed by the body and also minimizes gastrointestinal side effects.
While dosing recommendations may differ, usual doses are:
- 400mg orally once daily for newly-diagnosed adults
- 500mg orally once daily for those in the chronic/accelerated/blast phase
For children, usual doses are:
- 300mg/m2 orally once daily
- 400mg/m2 for children in the chronic phase with resistance or intolerance to prior therapy
Maintaining consistency in taking your medication as prescribed and adhering to dosage protocols is extremely important. Any inconsistency or unapproved changes in dosing could raise the risk of health complications.
What should I expect when taking Bosulif?
Bosutinib treatment schedules vary from patient to patient. Sometimes, treatment is long-term or even lifelong.
Many treatment plans include taking the medication for as long as the patient can tolerate the side effects.
Since it can lower your blood cell counts, your doctor may recommend frequent blood tests. Likewise, your medical providers may adjust your cancer treatment schedule based on your blood test results.
Your doctor will also monitor you for any potential side effects.
Be sure to communicate with your healthcare providers about your treatment. Any changes in your health or the emergence of side effects should be reported immediately to your doctor.
When you first start your dosing regimen, you may notice common side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. It is reported that these side effects may improve as your body adjusts after the initial two to three months of therapy.
Common Bosulif Side Effects and Safety Considerations
What are the common Bosulif side effects?
Side effects of Bosulif (bosutinib) include:
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Fever
- Headache
- Respiratory tract infection
- Rash
- Fatigue
What are the serious side effects of Bosulif?
While less common, some more serious side effects may occur. These include:
- Liver problems
- Swelling or fluid build-up in the lungs
- Feeling light-headed or short of breath
- Blood in stool
- Severe or ongoing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Heart problems
- Lower or higher frequency of urination
Monitoring and Managing Side Effects
Your doctor may require regular blood tests to ensure your blood panels are within the proper range and to monitor liver function.
For those who experience side effects, their healthcare provider may adjust their dosage if needed, or even stop treatment.
This makes it extremely important to report symptoms to your doctor as soon as they begin. Your doctor may choose to modify or even cease your medication treatment after being notified of the side effects you are experiencing.
Important Drug Interactions and Precautions
Consult with your doctor concerning any possible medication interactions.
Also, recommendations suggest avoiding grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as it may significantly increase the drug’s levels in the body, raising the risk of severe side effects and toxicity.
Women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding are directed to avoid treatment with Bosutinib, as it can harm their baby.
Women who can become pregnant should have a pregnancy test before starting treatment.
Women should not breastfeed during treatment and wait at least 2 weeks after the last dose, as recommended by their doctor.
Access and Affordability Considerations
Cancer treatments can be expensive. Access to Bosulif treatment may be hindered by the financial strain placed on those who must pay high out-of-pocket costs. This makes assistance or discount options all but necessary for many Americans.
Since consistent treatment is vital, those with Ph+ CML yet struggle financially are looking for ways to make their medication more affordable.
Organizations such as Prescription Hope may be able to help. By accessing Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) on behalf of the patient, Prescription Hope offers affordable, consistent service rates to those who qualify for the Bosulif PAP.
Patients looking to save on their medication should explore their options before paying full retail price for their brand-name medication.
Conclusion: What Patients Should Know Before and During Bosulif Treatment
Bosulif plays an important role in combating Ph+ CML in both adults and children. By inhibiting the BCR-ABL kinase, the medication slows the growth of CML cells.
Even though bosutinib treatment for CML may help limit its effects, patients should undergo all required tests and check-ups. Their doctor will closely monitor their health and well-being and may adjust dosing or treatment if side effects occur.
Patients who stay informed and proactive give their doctors the best opportunity to provide effective treatment, so always keep your doctor informed of any side effects or changes in your health.
For those who are struggling financially, Prescription Hope may be beneficial in accessing affordable Bosulif.
We offer affordable medication access to those who qualify. Our simple, low service rate of $70.00 per month per medication may be exactly what you need. If so, please simply fill out our online enrollment form today to get started!
