Dasatinib (Sprycel™)

Dasatinib (Sprycel) is a kinase inhibitor. Its mechanism of action is similar to Sutent wherein, it inhibits multiple tyrosine kinases thus preventing the growth and proliferation of cancer cells by cutting off the blood supply to the tumor. The Food and Drug Administration granted accelerated approval of Dasatinib on June 29, 2006, just three days after it approved Sutent.

Dasatinib (Sprycel) is available in 20, 50 and 70 mg. white to off-white, biconvex, film-coated tablet and is designed for oral administration. Patients taking Dasatinib (Sprycel) must inform their health care provider if they are taking any drugs and/or are pregnant and breastfeeding. Side effects may include bleeding, fluid retention (swelling in legs and around the eyes), fever, and diarrhea. Patients should coordinate with their health care providers for scheduled complete blood count studies while taking the drug and to report any case of swelling and fever.

Related: Varinostat for mesothelioma

Kinase inhibitors