Generic Dasatinib

Introduction

Dasatinib is a prescription-only oral tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI) used primarily to treat Philadelphia-chromosome-positive (Ph⁺) chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It is marketed internationally by Bristol-Myers Squibb under the brand name Sprycel and is supplied as 50 mg tablets packaged in a sealed bottle. The drug belongs to the second-generation TKI class, offering broader inhibition of BCR-ABL and SRC family kinases compared with first-generation agents. In addition to its approved uses, clinical research has explored several off-label applications, which remain investigational and must be managed by a qualified clinician.

What is Dasatinib?

• Definition - Dasatinib is a small-molecule, ATP-competitive inhibitor that blocks multiple tyrosine kinases involved in malignant cell proliferation.
• Classification - Second-generation BCR-ABL/TKI; also inhibits SRC, c-KIT, EPHA2, and PDGFRβ.
• Development history - Discovered by Bristol-Myers Squibb in the early s; received FDA approval in 2006 for Ph⁺ CML after failure of imatinib.
• Manufacturer - Commercially produced by Bristol-Myers Squibb and distributed worldwide under the trade name Sprycel.

How Dasatinib Works

Dasatinib binds reversibly to the active site of the BCR-ABL fusion protein, preventing phosphorylation of downstream substrates that drive leukemic cell growth. Its additional affinity for SRC family kinases disrupts cytoskeletal signaling and enhances apoptosis in resistant clones. After oral administration, peak plasma concentrations occur within .5-3 hours; the drug is metabolized chiefly by CYP3A4 and eliminated with a half-life of approximately 5 hours, allowing once-daily dosing.

Conditions Treated with Dasatinib

• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) - chronic, accelerated, or blast phase
  • Dasatinib’s potent BCR-ABL inhibition overcomes many imatinib-resistant mutations, producing high cytogenetic response rates.
• Philadelphia-chromosome-positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (Ph⁺ ALL)
  • By targeting both BCR-ABL and SRC pathways, dasatinib induces rapid disease control in combination regimens.

These indications are supported by pivotal phase III trials (e.g., DASISION, CA180-035) that demonstrated superior or comparable efficacy to earlier TKIs with acceptable safety profiles.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Dasatinib

• Chronic Myelofibrosis - Small pilot studies suggest symptom improvement through SRC inhibition, but regulatory approval is lacking.
• Systemic Sclerosis - Early phase trials reported modest reductions in skin fibrosis; safety still under evaluation.
• Solid Tumor Research - Preclinical models show activity against certain SRC-driven cancers (e.g., triple-negative breast cancer), yet clinical benefit remains unproven.

These applications are not approved by the FDA or EMA. Patients should only consider off-label use under direct supervision of a qualified healthcare provider, after a thorough risk-benefit assessment.

Is Dasatinib the Right Medication for You?

• Suitable patients - Adults with confirmed Ph⁺ CML or Ph⁺ ALL who require a TKI with activity against imatinib-resistant mutations.
• Recommended scenarios - First-line therapy for newly diagnosed chronic-phase CML, or second-line after failure/intolerance to imatinib.
• Contraindications - Known hypersensitivity to dasatinib or any tablet component; severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C); uncontrolled cardiac failure; pre-existing pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Patients with moderate liver disease (Child-Pugh A/B) may use reduced doses under clinical guidance.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Myelosuppression (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia) - Monitor complete blood counts weekly during the first two months.
• Fluid retention (pleural effusion, peripheral edema) - Manage with diuretics or dose adjustment.
• Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, dyspepsia) - Take with food if tolerated.

Rare

• Cutaneous reactions (rash, photosensitivity) - Discontinue if severe.
• Elevated liver enzymes - Perform hepatic function tests monthly.

Serious

• Severe hemorrhage - Risk heightened with concomitant anticoagulants; monitor coagulation parameters.
• Pulmonary arterial hypertension - May be irreversible; stop therapy and refer to cardiology.
• Cardiac dysfunction (reduced left-ventricular ejection fraction) - Baseline ECG and echocardiogram recommended.

Drug-Drug Interactions

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, clarithromycin, grapefruit juice) - May increase dasatinib exposure; dose reduction often required.
• CYP3A4 inducers (rifampin, carbamazepine, St. John’s wort) - May lower plasma levels; consider alternative therapies.
• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium - Reduce absorption; separate administration by at least 2 hours.

Drug-Food Interactions

• High-fat meals can slightly delay absorption but do not meaningfully alter overall exposure; patients may take dasatinib with or without food per personal preference.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing - 100 mg once daily for chronic-phase CML; 140 mg once daily for accelerated/blast phases or Ph⁺ ALL. Dose may be reduced to 50 mg daily in cases of intolerance or significant drug interactions.
• Missed dose - Take the missed tablet as soon as remembered unless the next scheduled dose is within 6 hours; do not double the dose.
• Overdose - Potential for profound myelosuppression and QT prolongation. Seek immediate medical attention; supportive care and hematologic monitoring are recommended.
• Administration precautions - Avoid concomitant alcohol that may exacerbate thrombocytopenia. Do not operate heavy machinery or drive until you know how dasatinib affects you, especially during the initial treatment period.

FAQ

• What should I store Dasatinib tablets in?

  • Store the tablets at controlled room temperature (20-25 °C) away from excess moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children.

• Can I travel internationally with my Dasatinib supply?

  • Yes. Carry the medication in its original labeled container, accompanied by a copy of the prescription and a letter from your physician if required by customs. Some countries may request proof of medical necessity.

• Does dasatinib interact with vitamin supplements?

  • Most multivitamins do not affect dasatinib absorption. However, high-dose calcium or iron supplements taken within 2 hours of the tablet may reduce bioavailability; separate dosing times.

• What is the appearance of dasatinib tablets?

  • The 50 mg tablets are round, white, film-coated, and bear the imprint “D-50”.

• Are there regional formulation differences for dasatinib?

  • Formulation is consistent across major markets, but excipient composition may vary slightly (e.g., lactose-free versions in the EU).

• How does dasatinib affect pregnancy testing?

  • Dasatinib does not interfere with standard urine or serum pregnancy assays. However, the drug is contraindicated in pregnancy due to teratogenic risk; effective contraception is mandatory.

• Is dasatinib detectable in drug-testing programs?

  • Dasatinib is not part of standard workplace drug panels. Specialized mass-spectrometry testing would be required for detection.

• What is the recommended frequency of blood monitoring?

  • Full blood counts weekly for the first 2 months, then every 2-4 weeks. Liver function tests monthly, and ECG/qT interval monitoring periodically.

• Can I take dasatinib with a low-glycemic diet?

  • There is no direct impact on blood glucose. Patients with diabetes should continue usual dietary management and monitor glucose as usual.

• Why might dasatinib cause skin photosensitivity?

  • SRC inhibition can alter cellular repair pathways, increasing susceptibility to UV-induced damage. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.

Glossary

Tyrosine Kinase

An enzyme that transfers a phosphate group to a tyrosine residue on a protein, initiating signaling cascades that regulate cell growth and survival.

BCR-ABL Fusion Protein

An abnormal enzyme produced by the Philadelphia chromosome translocation; it drives uncontrolled proliferation in CML and Ph⁺ ALL.

Myelosuppression

Suppression of bone-marrow activity leading to reduced production of blood cells (red cells, white cells, platelets).

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Elevated pressure in the arteries of the lungs, which can be worsened by dasatinib and may become irreversible.

Buying Dasatinib from Our Online pharmacy

Dasatinib can be obtained securely through our online pharmacy. Our service focuses on delivering the medication at a cost close to the manufacturer’s price while maintaining strict quality standards. All tablets are sourced from licensed, audited suppliers that hold valid certifications, ensuring that patients receive authentic, pharmaceutically-grade product.

Key benefits include:

• Affordability - Generic pricing reduces out-of-pocket expenses, making long-term therapy more sustainable.
• Verified quality - Every batch undergoes third-party testing for potency, purity, and safety.
• Discreet delivery - Packages are shipped in unmarked envelopes, protecting patient privacy. Typical delivery options are 7-day express or approximately 3-week regular airmail, depending on location.
• International access - We partner with overseas licensed pharmacies, enabling patients in regions with limited local availability to obtain the medication legally and safely.

Our pharmacy operates as a broker service, coordinating with reputable global suppliers while upholding confidentiality and regulatory compliance. Patients seeking a reliable, cost-effective source for dasatinib can rely on the professionalism of our online pharmacy.

Disclaimer

The content presented about Dasatinib is intended for general educational purposes and does not substitute professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including those regarding off-label use, must be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Readers are presumed to be competent adults capable of making informed health choices. Our online pharmacy provides access to Dasatinib for individuals who encounter limited availability through conventional pharmacies, insurance-based prescription programs, or who are looking for cost-effective generic alternatives. Always discuss any medication changes with your physician before initiating, modifying, or stopping therapy.