Bosulif (Bosutinib) for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

Overview
Bosulif is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (Ph+ CML), a type of myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN), in adults and children over the age of 1. It is prescribed for individuals with chronic, accelerated, or blast phases of CML, whether newly diagnosed or resistant to previous therapies. Bosulif is also known by its drug name, bosutinib.

Bosulif is a kinase inhibitor, a drug class that blocks certain enzymes (kinases) that cancer cells need to grow and multiply. By inhibiting these enzymes, Bosulif helps to slow the growth of leukemia cells, which may reduce the overall progression of CML.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Bosulif should be taken as an oral tablet or capsule once daily with food. For adults with newly diagnosed chronic phase Ph+ CML, the recommended dosing schedule is once daily. For those with chronic, accelerated, or blast phase Ph+ CML resistant or intolerant to previous therapy, a higher dosage is generally taken once daily. Dosing for children depends on the recipient’s body surface area. Dosage adjustments may be needed if the person experiences adverse effects or does not achieve adequate response. Bosulif should be taken exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Bosulif include diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, rash, fatigue, liver dysfunction, headache, fever, decreased appetite, respiratory infections, and constipation. Frequent laboratory abnormalities may include increased creatinine, decreased hemoglobin, lower lymphocyte and platelet counts, increased liver enzymes (ALT and AST), and elevated glucose and uric acid levels.

Rare but serious side effects may include gastrointestinal toxicity, myelosuppression (decreased blood cell counts), liver toxicity, cardiovascular issues (heart problems), fluid retention, and kidney toxicity. Bosulif may also cause harm to a fetus when taken by a pregnant individual.

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Label: Bosulif — Bosutinib Tablet, Film Coated, Bosulif — Bosutinib Capsule — DailyMed