This Fall, Sprycel (dasatanib is the generic drug name) was approved by the FDA as a second line option to treat a rare form of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) called Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CP -CML). Previously, Sprycel (dasatinib) was only approved as a second line option for CML treatment if other front line drugs such as Gleevec (imatinib mesylate) were no longer providing benefits, or if patients could no longer tolerate them.
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a rare blood cancer in which the bone marrow makes too many white blood cells. These white blood cells are abnormal and are called leukemic cells. They can build up in the blood and bone marrow so there is less room for healthy white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. When this happens, infection, anemia, or easy bleeding may occur.
Sprycel (dasatinib) is believed to inhibit the activity of certain proteins responsible for the growth of cancer cells, which allows bone marrow to begin reproducing normal red and white blood cells. Read more about the approval of Sprycel (dasatinib) for Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CP -CML) here.
Common side effects for Sprycel (dasatinib) include fever and chills, painful urination, sore throat and cough, nasal congestion and skin rash. Click the link to find out how to minimize and treat the side effects of Sprycel (dasatinib).