INN monograph
Nilotinib
Kinase Inhibitor [EPC] · POM
Source-linked · Updated 03 Aug 2026 · Source: Local active-ingredient clinical extract; FDA drug label via OpenFDA/DailyMed; Professional class pharmacology (Therapeutic agent (verify pharmacological class))
Kenya market
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Risk first
Contraindications
- 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Nilotinib is contraindicated in patients with hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or long QT syndrome [ see Boxed Warning ].
- Nilotinib is contraindicated in patients with hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or long QT syndrome.
Precautions
- : Monitor complete blood count (CBC) during therapy and manage by treatment interruption or dose reduction.
- ( 5.1 ) Cardiac and Arterial Vascular Occlusive Events : Evaluate cardiovascular status, monitor and manage cardiovascular risk factors during nilotinib therapy.
- ( 5.4 ) Pancreatitis and Elevated Serum Lipase : Monitor serum lipase
- if elevations are accompanied by abdominal symptoms, interrupt doses and consider appropriate diagnostics to exclude pancreatitis.
- ( 5.5 ) Hepatotoxicity : Monitor hepatic function tests monthly or as clinically indicated.
- ( 5.6 ) Electrolyte Abnormalities : Nilotinib can cause hypophosphatemia, hypokalemia, hyperkalemia, hypocalcemia, and hyponatremia.
- Correct electrolyte abnormalities prior to initiating nilotinib and monitor periodically during therapy.
- ( 5.7 ) Tumor Lysis Syndrome : Maintain adequate hydration and correct uric acid levels prior to initiating therapy with nilotinib.
- ( 5.8 ) Hemorrhage : Hemorrhage from any site may occur.
- Advise patients to report signs and symptoms of bleeding and medically manage as needed.
- ( 5.9 ) Fluid Retention : Monitor patients for unexpected rapid weight gain, swelling, and shortness of breath.
- Manage medically.
Point of care
Dosing
Adult
Dose: Newly diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP: 300 mg orally twice daily. Resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML-CP and CML-AP: 400 mg orally twice daily. ( 2.1 ) Recommended Pediatric Dose: Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP or Ph+ CML-CP resistant or intolerant to prior TKI therapy: 230 mg/m 2 orally twice daily, rounded to the nearest 50 mg dose (to a maximum single dose of 400 mg). ( 2.1 ) See Dosage and Administration for full dosing instructions and dose-reduction instructions for toxicity. ( 2.1 ) Reduce starting dose in patients with baseline hepatic impairment. ( 2.7 ) Eligible newly diagnosed adult patients with Ph+ CML-CP who have received nilotinib capsules for a minimum of 3 years and have achieved a sustained molecular response (MR4.5) and patients with Ph+ CML-CP resistant or intolerant to imatinib who have received nilotinib capsules for at least 3 years and have achieved a sustained molecular response (MR4.5) may be considered for treatment discontinuation. ( 2.2 , 2.3 , 5.16 ) 2.1 Recommended Dosage Dose nilotinib capsules twice daily at approximately 12-hour intervals on an empty stomach. No food should be consumed for at least 2 hours before the dose is taken and for at least 1 hour after the dose is taken. Advise patients to swallow the capsules whole with water [ see Boxed Warning , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. For patients who are unable to swallow capsules, the contents of each capsule may be dispersed in 1 teaspoon of applesauce (puréed apple). The mixture should be taken immediately (within 15 minutes) and should not be stored for future use [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Nilotinib capsules may be given in combination with hematopoietic growth factors, such as erythropoietin or G-CSF if clinically indicated. Nilotinib capsules may be given with hydroxyurea or anagrelide if clinically indicated. Dosage in Adult Patients with Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP The recommended dosage of nilotinib capsules are 300 mg orally twice daily. Dosage in Adult Patients with Resistant or Intolerant Ph+ CML-CP and CML-AP The recommended dosage of nilotinib capsules are 400 mg orally twice daily. Dosage in Pediatric Patients with Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP or Resistant or Intolerant Ph+ CML-CP The recommended dosage of nilotinib capsules for pediatric patients is 230 mg/m2 orally twice daily, rounded to the nearest 50 mg dose (to a maximum single dose of 400 mg) (see Table 1). If needed, attain the desired dose by combining different strengths of nilotinib capsules. Continue treatment as long as clinical benefit is observed or until unacceptable toxicity occurs. Table 1: Pediatric Dosing of Nilotinib capsules (230 mg/m 2 Twice Daily, Maximum Single Dose of 400 mg) Body surface area Single dose Total daily dose Up to 0.32 m 2 50 mg 100 mg 0.33 – 0.54 m 2 100 mg 200 mg 0.55 – 0.76 m 2 150 mg 300 mg 0.77 – 0.97 m 2 200 mg 400 mg 0.98 – 1.19 m 2 250 mg 500 mg 1.20 – 1.41 m 2 300 mg 600 mg 1.42 – 1.63 m 2 350 mg 700 mg ≥ 1.64 m 2 400 mg 800 mg Additional pediatric use information is approved for Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s TASIGNA (nilotinib) capsules. However, due to Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that pediatric information. 2.2 Discontinuation of Treatment After a Sustained Molecular Response (MR4.5) on Nilotinib Capsules Patient Selection Eligibility for Discontinuation of Treatment Ph+ CML-CP patients with typical BCR-ABL transcripts, who have been taking nilotinib capsules for a minimum of 3 years and have achieved a sustained molecular response (MR4.5, corresponding to = BCR-ABL/ABL ≤ 0.0032% IS), may be eligible for treatment discontinuation [ see Clinical Studies (14.3 , 14.4) ]. Information on FDA authorized tests for the detection and quantitation of BCR-ABL transcripts to determine eligibility for treatment discontinuation is available at http://www.fda.gov/CompanionDiagnostics. Patients with typical BCR-ABL transcripts (e13a2/b2a2 or e14a2/b3a2), who achieve the sustained MR4.5 criteria, are eligible for discontinuation of nilotinib capsules. Patients must continue to be monitored for possible loss of molecular remission after treatment discontinuation. Use the same FDA-authorized test to consistently monitor molecular response levels while on and off treatment. Consider discontinuation in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP who have: been treated with nilotinib capsules for at least 3 years maintained a molecular response of at least MR4.0 (corresponding to = BCR-ABL/ABL ≤ 0.01% IS) for one year prior to discontinuation of therapy achieved an MR4.5 for the last assessment taken immediately prior to discontinuation of therapy been confirmed to express the typical BCR-ABL transcripts (e13a2/b2a2 or e14a2/b3a2) no history of accelerated phase or blast crisis no history of prior attempts of treatment-free remission discontinuation that resulted in relapse. Consider discontinuation in patients with Ph+ CML-CP that are resistant or intolerant to imatinib who have achieved a sustained molecular response (MR4.5) on nilotinib capsules who have: been treated with nilotinib capsules for a minimum of 3 years been treated with imatinib only prior to treatment with nilotinib capsules achieved a molecular response of MR4.5 (corresponding to = BCR-ABL/ABL ≤ 0.0032% IS) sustained an MR4.5 for a minimum of one year immediately prior to discontinuation of therapy been confirmed to express the typical BCR-ABL transcripts (e13a2/b2a2 or e14a2/b3a2) no history of accelerated phase or blast crisis no history of prior attempts of treatment-free remission discontinuation that resulted in relapse. Monitor BCR-ABL transcript levels and complete blood count (CBC) with differential in patients who have discontinued nilotinib capsules therapy monthly for one year, then every 6 weeks for the second year, and every 12 weeks thereafter [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.16) ]. Upon the loss of MR4.0 (corresponding to = BCR-ABL/ABL ≤ 0.01% IS) during the treatment-free phase, monitor BCR-ABL transcript levels every 2 weeks until BCR-ABL levels remain lower than major molecular response [(MMR), corresponding to MR3.0 or = BCR-ABL/ABL ≤ 0.1% IS] for 4 consecutive measurements. The patient can then proceed to the original monitoring schedule. 2.3 Reinitiation of Treatment in Patients Who Lose Molecular Response After Discontinuation of Therapy With Nilotinib Capsules Newly diagnosed patients who lose MMR must reinitiate treatment within 4 weeks at the dose level prior to discontinuation of therapy [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.16) ]. Patients who reinitiate nilotinib capsules therapy should have their BCR-ABL transcript levels monitored monthly until major molecular response is re-established and every 12 weeks thereafter. Patients resistant or intolerant to prior treatment that included imatinib with confirmed loss of MR4.0 (2 consecutive measures separated by at least 4 weeks showing loss of MR4.0) or loss of MMR must reinitiate treatment within 4 weeks at the dose level prior to discontinuation of therapy [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.16) ]. Patients who reinitiate nilotinib capsules therapy should have their BCR-ABL transcript levels monitored monthly until previous major molecular response or MR4.0 is re-established and every 12 weeks thereafter. 2.4 Dosage Modification for QT Interval Prolongation See Table 2 for dose adjustments for QT interval prolongation [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ]. Table 2: Dosage Adjustments for Adult and Pediatric Patients With QT Prolongation Degree of QTc prolongation Dosage adjustment ECGs with a QTc greater than 480 msec 1. Withhold nilotinib capsules, and perform an analysis of serum potassium and magnesium, and if below lower limit of normal, correct with supplements to within normal limits. Concomitant medication usage must be reviewed. 2. Resume within 2 weeks at prior dose if QTcF returns to less than 450 msec and to within 20 msec of baseline. 3. If QTcF is between 450 msec and 480 msec after 2 weeks, reduce the dose to 400 mg once daily in adults and 230 mg/m 2 once daily in pediatric patients. 4. Discontinue nilotinib capsules if, following dose-reduction to 400 mg once daily in adults and 230 mg/m 2 once daily in pediatric patients, QTcF returns to greater than 480 msec. 5. An ECG should be repeated approximately 7 days after any dose adjustment. Abbreviation: ECG, electrocardiogram. 2.5 Dosage Modifications for Myelosuppression Withhold or reduce nilotinib capsules dosage for hematological toxicities (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia) that are not related to underlying leukemia (Table 3) [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Table 3: Dosage Adjustments for Neutropenia and Thrombocytopenia Diagnosis Degree of myelosuppression Dosage adjustment Adult patients with: Newly diagnosed Ph+ CML in chronic phase at 300 mg twice daily Resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase or accelerated phase at 400 mg twice daily ANC less than 1.0 x 10 9 /L and/or platelet counts less than 50 x 10 9 /L Stop nilotinib capsules, and monitor blood counts. Resume within 2 weeks at prior dose if ANC greater than 1.0 x 10 9 /L and platelets greater than 50 x 10 9 /L. If blood counts remain low for greater than 2 weeks, reduce the dose to 400 mg once daily. Pediatric patients with: Newly diagnosed Ph+ CML in chronic phase at 230 mg/m 2 twice daily Resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase at 230 mg/m 2 twice daily ANC less than 1.0 x 10 9 /L and/or platelet counts less than 50 x 10 9 /L Stop nilotinib capsules and monitor blood counts. Resume within 2 weeks at prior dose if ANC greater than 1.5 x 10 9 /L and/or platelets greater than 75 x 10 9 /L. If blood counts remain low for greater than 2 weeks, a dose reduction to 230 mg/m 2 once daily may be required. If event occurs after dose reduction, consider discontinuing treatment. Abbreviations: ANC, absolute neutrophil count; Ph+ CML, Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia. 2.6 Dosage Modifications for Selected Non-Hematologic Laboratory Abnormalities and Other Toxicities See Table 4 for dosage adjustments for elevations of lipase, amylase, bilirubin, and/or hepatic transaminases [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.5 , 5.6) , Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Table 4: Dosage Adjustments for Selected Non-Hematologic Laboratory Abnormalities Degree of non-hematologic laboratory abnormality Dosage adjustment Elevated serum lipase or amylase greater than or equal to Grade 3 Adult patients: 1. Withhold nilotinib capsules, and monitor serum lipase or amylase. 2. Resume treatment at 400 mg once daily if serum lipase or amylase returns to less than or equal to Grade 1. Pediatric patients: Interrupt nilotinib capsules until the event returns to less than or equal to Grade 1. Resume treatment at 230 mg/m 2 once daily if prior dose was 230 mg/m 2 twice daily; discontinue treatment if prior dose was 230 mg/m 2 once daily. Elevated bilirubin greater than or equal to Grade 3 in adult patients and greater than or equal to Grade 2 in pediatric patients Adult patients: 1. Withhold nilotinib capsules, and monitor bilirubin. 2. Resume treatment at 400 mg once daily if bilirubin returns to less than or equal to Grade 1. Pediatric patients: 1. Interrupt nilotinib capsules until the event returns to less than or equal to Grade 1. 2. Resume treatment at 230 mg/m 2 once daily if prior dose was 230 mg/m 2 twice daily; discontinue treatment if prior dose was 230 mg/m 2 once daily, and recovery to less than or equal to Grade 1 takes longer than 28 days. Elevated hepatic transaminases greater than or equal to Grade 3 Adult patients: 1. Withhold nilotinib capsules, and monitor hepatic transaminases. 2. Resume treatment at 400 mg once daily if hepatic transaminases returns to less than or equal to Grade 1. Pediatric patients: 1. Interrupt nilotinib capsules until the event returns to less than or…
Paediatric
8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of nilotinib have been established in pediatric patients greater than or equal to 1 year of age with newly diagnosed and resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase [see Clinical Studies (14.5 )]. There are no data for pediatric patients under 2 years of age. Use of nilotinib in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 2 years of age with newly diagnosed or resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase is supported by efficacy in pediatric patients 2 to 6 years of age for these indications. Use of nilotinib in pediatric patients 1 to less than 18 years of age is supported by evidence from two clinical trials [see Clinical Studies (14.5 )]. The 25 patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP were in the following age groups: 6 children (age 2 to less than 12 years) and 19 adolescents (age 12 to less than 18 years). The 44 patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML-CP included 18 children (age 2 to less than 12 years) and 26 adolescents (age 12 to less than 18 years). All pediatric patients received nilotinib treatment at a dose of 230 mg/m 2 twice daily, rounded to the nearest 50 mg dose (to a maximum single dose of 400 mg). No differences in efficacy or safety were observed between the different age subgroups in the two trials. The frequency, type, and severity of adverse reactions observed were generally consistent with those observed in adults, with the exception of the laboratory abnormalities of hyperbilirubinemia (Grade 3/4: 16%) and transaminase elevation (AST Grade 3/4: 2.9%, ALT Grade 3/4: 10%), which were reported at a higher frequency in pediatric patients than in adults [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . For pediatric growth and development, growth retardation has been reported in pediatric patients with Ph+ CML-CP treated with nilotinib [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14 ), Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . The safety and effectiveness of nilotinib in pediatric patients below the age of 1 year with newly diagnosed, or resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase and accelerated phase, have not been established. Additional pediatric use information is approved for Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s TASIGNA (nilotinib) capsules. However, due to Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that pediatric information.
Renal
Review renal impairment dosing; many agents need CrCl/eGFR adjustment.
- CrCl 0–120: Confirm renal dosing in product SmPC / primary label.
Hepatic
Review hepatic impairment dosing; monitor LFTs if agent is hepatically cleared or hepatotoxic.
Safety
Drug interactions
- Professional use: confirm indication, dose, duration, monitoring and patient counselling points against current Kenya STG / EML and the product SmPC.
- Document allergy status and key interactions.
Safety
Adverse effects
- labeling: Myelosuppression [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] QT Prolongation [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Sudden Deaths [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Cardiac and Arterial Vascular Occlusive Events [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Pancreatitis and Elevated Serum Lipase [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Hepatotoxicity [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Electrolyte Abnormalities [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Hemorrhage [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Fluid Retention [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ] The most commonly reported non-hematologic adverse reactions (≥ 20%) in adult and pediatric patients were nausea, rash, headache, fatigue, pruritus, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, constipation, arthralgia, nasopharyngitis, pyrexia, and night sweats.
- Hematologic adverse drug reactions include myelosuppression: thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and anemia.
- ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Novadoz Pharmaceuticals LLC at 1-855-668-2369 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
- In Adult Patients With Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP The data below reflect exposure to nilotinib from a randomized trial in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML in chronic phase treated at the recommended dose of 300 mg twice daily (n = 279).
- The median time on treatment in the nilotinib 300 mg twice daily group was 61 months (range, 0.1 to 71 months).
- The median actual dose intensity was 593 mg/day in the nilotinib 300 mg twice daily group.
- The most common (greater than 10%) non-hematologic adverse drug reactions were rash, pruritus, headache, nausea, fatigue, alopecia, myalgia, and upper abdominal pain.
- Constipation, diarrhea, dry skin, muscle spasms, arthralgia, abdominal pain, peripheral edema, vomiting, and asthenia were observed less commonly (less than or equal to 10% and greater than 5%) and have been of mild-to-moderate severity, manageable and generally did not require dose reduction.
- Increase in QTcF greater than 60 msec from baseline was observed in 1 patient (0.4%) in the 300 mg twice daily treatment group.
- No patient had an absolute QTcF of greater than 500 msec while on study drug.
- The most common hematologic adverse drug reactions (all Grades) were myelosuppression, including: thrombocytopenia (18%), neutropenia (15%), and anemia (8%).
- See Table 9 for Grade 3/4 laboratory abnormalities.
- Discontinuation due to adverse reactions, regardless of relationship to study drug, was observed in 10% of patients.
- In Adult Patients With Resistant or Intolerant Ph+ CML-CP and CML-AP In the single-arm, open-label multicenter clinical trial, a total of 458 patients with Ph+ CML-CP and CML-AP resistant to or intolerant to at least one prior therapy, including imatinib were treated (CML-CP = 321
Use
Indications
- of: Adult and pediatric patients greater than or equal to 1 year of age with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) in chronic phase.
- ( 1.1 ) Adult patients with chronic phase (CP) and accelerated phase (AP) Ph+ CML resistant to or intolerant to prior therapy that included imatinib.
- ( 1.2 ) Pediatric patients greater than or equal to 1 year of age with Ph+ CML-CP resistant or intolerant to prior tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy.
- (1.3) 1.1 Adult and Pediatric Patients With Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP Nilotinib capsules are indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients greater than or equal to 1 year of age with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) in chronic phase. 1.2 Adult Patients With Resistant or Intolerant Ph+ CML-CP and CML-AP Nilotinib capsules are indicated for the treatment of adult patients with chronic phase and accelerated phase Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (Ph+ CML) resistant or intolerant to prior therapy that included imatinib. 1.3 Pediatric Patients With Resistant or Intolerant Ph+ CML-CP Nilotinib capsules are indicated for the treatment of pediatric patients greater than or equal to 1 year of age with chronic phase Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) with resistance or intolerance to prior tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy.
- Additional pediatric use information is approved for Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s TASIGNA (nilotinib) capsules.
- However, due to Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that pediatric information.
Pharmacology
Mode of action
kinase.
Full mechanism text
kinase. Nilotinib binds to and stabilizes the inactive conformation of the kinase domain of ABL protein. In vitro , nilotinib inhibited BCR-ABL mediated proliferation of murine leukemic cell lines and human cell lines derived from patients with Ph+ CML. Under the conditions of the assays, nilotinib was able to overcome imatinib resistance resulting from BCR-ABL kinase mutations, in 32 out of 33 mutations tested. Nilotinib inhibited the autophosphorylation of the following kinases at IC50 values as indicated: BCR-ABL (20 to 60 nM), PDGFR (69 nM), c-KIT (210 nM), CSF-1R (125 to 250 nM), and DDR1 (3.7 nM).
ADME
Pharmacokinetics & PD
| Onset | Product-specific |
|---|---|
| Duration | Product-specific |
| Route | See product SmPC |
| Absorption | Relative bioavailability of nilotinib capsule is approximately 50%, as compared to an oral drink solution (pH of 1.2 to 1.3). Peak concentrations of nilotinib are reached 3 hours after oral administration. Nilotinib is a substrate of P-gp in vitro. Median steady-state trough conc... |
| Distribution | The blood-to-serum ratio of nilotinib is 0.68. Serum protein binding is approximately 98%. |
| Metabolism | Nilotinib is primarily metabolized via CYP3A4-mediated oxidation and to a minor extent by CYP2C8. Nilotinib is the main circulating component in the serum. None of the metabolites contribute significantly to the pharmacological activity of nilotinib. |
| Elimination | The mean (CV%) apparent elimination |
| Half-life | is estimated to be approximately 17 hours (69%) and the mean (CV%) apparent clearance approximates 29 L/h (61%). |
Full PK/PD text
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Nilotinib is an inhibitor of the BCR-ABL kinase. Nilotinib binds to and stabilizes the inactive conformation of the kinase domain of ABL protein. In vitro , nilotinib inhibited BCR-ABL mediated proliferation of murine leukemic cell lines and human cell lines derived from patients with Ph+ CML. Under the conditions of the assays, nilotinib was able to overcome imatinib resistance resulting from BCR-ABL kinase mutations, in 32 out of 33 mutations tested. Nilotinib inhibited the autophosphorylation of the following kinases at IC50 values as indicated: BCR-ABL (20 to 60 nM), PDGFR (69 nM), c-KIT (210 nM), CSF-1R (125 to 250 nM), and DDR1 (3.7 nM). 12.2 Pharmacodynamics Based on exposure-response analyses for efficacy, a relationship between drug exposure and a greater likelihood of response was observed in clinical studies. Based on exposure-response analyses for safety, a relationship between exposure and a greater likelihood of safety events, including a higher occurrence of total bilirubin elevations, was observed in clinical studies. Cardiac Electrophysiology Nilotinib is associated with concentration-dependent QT prolongation. At a dose of nilotinib 400 mg twice daily given without food in healthy subjects, the maximum mean placebo-adjusted QTcF changes were 10.4 msec (90% CI: 2.85, 18). After a single dose of nilotinib 800 mg (two times the maximum approved recommended dosage) given with a high fat meal to healthy subjects, the maximum mean placebo-adjusted QTcF changes were) 18 msec (90% CI: 9.65, 25.8). Peak plasma concentrations in the QT study were 26% lower than or comparable with those observed in patients enrolled in the single-arm study [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics Steady-state nilotinib exposure was dose-dependent with less than dose-proportional increases in systemic exposure at dose levels higher than 400 mg given as once or twice daily dosing. In adult patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML given nilotinib 400 mg twice daily, the steady-state mean (% CV) C max and AUC 0-12h were 2260 ng/mL (35%) and 18000 ng∙h/mL (33%), respectively. In adult patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML given nilotinib 300 mg twice daily, the steady-state mean (% CV) C max and AUC 0-12h were 1540 ng/mL (48%) and 13337 ng∙h/mL (46%), respectively. Steady state conditions were achieved by Day 8. An increase in serum exposure to nilotinib between the first dose and steady state was approximately 2-fold for daily dosing and 3.8-fold for twice daily dosing. The average steady state nilotinib trough and peak concentrations did not change over 12 months. Absorption Relative bioavailability of nilotinib capsule is approximately 50%, as compared to an oral drink solution (pH of 1.2 to 1.3). Peak concentrations of nilotinib are reached 3 hours after oral administration. Nilotinib is a substrate of P-gp in vitro. Median steady-state trough concentration of nilotinib was decreased by 53% in patients with total gastrectomy compared to patients who had not undergone surgeries [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ]. Effect of Food Compared to the fasted state, the systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 82% when the dose was given 30 minutes after a high fat meal (meal of 800 to 1000 calories with fat being 50% of total caloric content; approximately: 150 calories from protein, 250 calories from carbohydrates, and 500 to 600 calories from fat). Single dose administration of two 200 mg nilotinib capsules each dispersed in 1 teaspoon of applesauce and administered within 15 minutes was shown to be bioequivalent to a single dose administration of two 200 mg intact capsules. Distribution The blood-to-serum ratio of nilotinib is 0.68. Serum protein binding is approximately 98%. Elimination The mean (CV%) apparent elimination half-life is estimated to be approximately 17 hours (69%) and the mean (CV%) apparent clearance approximates 29 L/h (61%). Metabolism Nilotinib is primarily metabolized via CYP3A4-mediated oxidation and to a minor extent by CYP2C8. Nilotinib is the main circulating component in the serum. None of the metabolites contribute significantly to the pharmacological activity of nilotinib. Excretion After a single dose of radiolabeled nilotinib, more than 90% of the administered dose was eliminated within 7 days: 93% of the dose in feces. Parent drug accounted for 69% of the dose. Specific Populations Age, sex, race/ethnicity, or body weight did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of nilotinib. The effect of renal impairment on nilotinib pharmacokinetics is unknown. Pediatric Patients Following administration of the approved recommend pediatric dosage of nilotinib, steady-state exposure of nilotinib were within 2-fold to adult patients treated with 400 mg twice daily. Steady-state C min was comparable across all age groups (pediatric patients from ages 2 to less than 18 years), diseases (patients with newly diagnosed and resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML) and studies. Body surface area correlated with nilotinib clearance and was the primary factor responsible for the PK differences between pediatrics and adults. Patients with Hepatic Impairment Following a single dose of nilotinib 200 mg (0.5 times the maximum approved recommended dosage), the mean AUC of nilotinib increased 1.4-fold, 1.4-fold, and 1.6-fold in subjects with mild (Child-Pugh class A), moderate (Child-Pugh class B) and severe (Child-Pugh class C) hepatic impairment, respectively, compared to subjects with normal hepatic function. Drug Interaction Studies Clinical Studies Strong CYP3A Inhibitors: Coadministration of ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A inhibitor) 400 mg once daily for 6 days increased nilotinib AUC by approximately 3-fold. A single concurrent intake of double-strength grapefruit juice increased the nilotinib AUC by 1.3-fold. Strong CYP3A Inducers: Coadministration of rifampicin (a strong CYP3A inducer) 600 mg daily for 12 days decreased nilotinib AUC by approximately 80%. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Nilotinib displays pH-dependent aqueous solubility. Coadministration of multiple doses of esomeprazole (a PPI) at 40 mg daily decreased the nilotinib AUC by 34%. No significant change in nilotinib pharmacokinetics was observed when a single 400 mg dose of nilotinib was administered 10 hours after and 2 hours before famotidine (an H2 blocker), or administered 2 hours after and 2 hours before an antacid (e.g., aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, simethicone). Moderate CYP3A Inhibitors: Following coadministration of nilotinib 400 mg twice daily with imatinib (a moderate CYP3A inhibitor) 400 mg daily or 400 mg twice daily, the AUC increased 30% to 50% for nilotinib and approximately 20% for imatinib. CYP3A4 Substrates: Multiple doses of nilotinib increased the systemic exposure of oral midazolam (a substrate of CYP3A4) 2.6-fold. CYP2C9 Substrates: Single-dose of nilotinib did not change the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of warfarin (a CYP2C9 substrate). In Vitro Studies Where Drug Interaction Potential was not Further Evaluated Clinically CYP Substrates: Nilotinib is a competitive inhibitor of CYP2C8, CYP2D6, and is an inducer of CYP2B6 and CYP2C8. Substrates of Transporters: Nilotinib is an inhibitor of UGT1A1 and P-gp. 12.5 Pharmacogenomics Nilotinib can increase bilirubin levels. The (TA)7/(TA)7 genotype of UGT1A1 was associated with a statistically significant increase in the risk of hyperbilirubinemia relative to the (TA)6/(TA)6 and (TA)6/(TA)7 genotypes. However, the largest increases in bilirubin were observed in the (TA)7/(TA)7 genotype (UGT1A1*28) patients [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ].
Kenya
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Special populations
Pregnancy & lactation
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings from animal studies and the mechanism of action, nilotinib can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ] . There are no available data in pregnant women to inform the drug-associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, administration of nilotinib to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis caused adverse developmental outcomes, including embryo-fetal lethality, fetal effects, and fetal variations in rats and rabbits at maternal exposures (AUC) approximately 2 and 0.5 times, respectively, the exposures in patients at the recommended dose (see Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies are 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies in rats and rabbits, pregnant animals received oral doses of nilotinib up to 100 mg/kg/day and 300 mg/kg/day, respectively, during the period of organogenesis. In rats, oral administration of nilotinib produced embryo-lethality/fetal effects at doses ≥ 30 mg/kg/day. At ≥ 30 mg/kg/day, skeletal variations of incomplete ossification of the frontals and misshapen sternebra were noted, and there was an increased incidence of small renal papilla and fetal edema. At 100 mg/kg/day, nilotinib was associated with maternal toxicity (decreased gestation weight, gravid uterine weight, net weight gain, and food consumption) and resulted in a single incidence of cleft palate and two incidences of pale skin were noted in the fetuses. A single incidence of dilated ureters was noted in a fetus also displaying small renal papilla at 100 mg/kg/day. Additional variations of forepaw and hindpaw phalanx unossified, fused sternebra, bipartite sternebra ossification, and incomplete ossification of the cervical vertebra were noted at 100 mg/kg/day. In rabbits, oral administration of nilotinib resulted in the early sacrifice of two females, maternal toxicity and increased resorption of fetuses at 300 mg/kg/day. Fetal skeletal variations (incomplete ossification of the hyoid, bent hyoid, supernumerary short detached ribs and the presence of additional ossification sites near the nasals, frontals and in the sternebral column) were also increased at this dose in the presence of maternal toxicity. Slight maternal toxicity was evident at 100 mg/kg/day but there were no reproductive or embryo-fetal effects at this dose. At 30 mg/kg/day in rats and 300 mg/kg/day in rabbits, the maternal systemic exposure (AUC) were 72700 ng*hr/mL and 17100 ng*hr/mL, respectively, representing approximately 2 and 0.5 times the exposure in humans at the highest recommended dose 400 mg twice daily. When pregnant rats were dosed with nilotinib during organogenesis and through lactation, the adverse effects included a longer gestational period, lower pup body weights until weaning and decreased fertility indices in the pups when they reached maturity, all at a maternal dose of 60 mg/kg (i.e., 360 mg/m 2 , approximately 0.7 times the clinical dose of 400 mg twice daily based on body surface area). At doses up to 20 mg/kg (i.e., 120 mg/m 2 , approximately 0.25 times the clinical dose of 400 mg twice daily based on body surface area) no adverse effects were seen in the maternal animals or the pups.
Lactation
: Advise women not to breastfeed. ( 8.2 ) Additional pediatric use information is approved for Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s TASIGNA (nilotinib) capsules. However, due to Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that pediatric information. 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings from animal studies and the mechanism of action, nilotinib can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ] . There are no available data in pregnant women to inform the drug-associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, administration of nilotinib to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis caused adverse developmental outcomes, including embryo-fetal lethality, fetal effects, and fetal variations in rats and rabbits at maternal exposures (AUC) approximately 2 and 0.5 times, respectively, the exposures in patients at the recommended dose (see Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies are 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies in rats and rabbits, pregnant animals received oral doses of nilotinib up to 100 mg/kg/day and 300 mg/kg/day, respectively, during the period of organogenesis. In rats, oral administration of nilotinib produced embryo-lethality/fetal effects at doses ≥ 30 mg/kg/day. At ≥ 30 mg/kg/day, skeletal variations of incomplete ossification of the frontals and misshapen sternebra were noted, and there was an increased incidence of small renal papilla and fetal edema. At 100 mg/kg/day, nilotinib was associated with maternal toxicity (decreased gestation weight, gravid uterine weight, net weight gain, and food consumption) and resulted in a single incidence of cleft palate and two incidences of pale skin were noted in the fetuses. A single incidence of dilated ureters was noted in a fetus also displaying small renal papilla at 100 mg/kg/day. Additional variations of forepaw and hindpaw phalanx unossified, fused sternebra, bipartite sternebra ossification, and incomplete ossification of the cervical vertebra were noted at 100 mg/kg/day. In rabbits, oral administration of nilotinib resulted in the early sacrifice of two females, maternal toxicity and increased resorption of fetuses at 300 mg/kg/day. Fetal skeletal variations (incomplete ossification of the hyoid, bent hyoid, supernumerary short detached ribs and the presence of additional ossification sites near the nasals, frontals and in the sternebral column) were also increased at this dose in the presence of maternal toxicity. Slight maternal toxicity was evident at 100 mg/kg/day but there were no reproductive or embryo-fetal effects at this dose. At 30 mg/kg/day in rats and 300 mg/kg/day in rabbits, the maternal systemic exposure (AUC) were 72700 ng*hr/mL and 17100 ng*hr/mL, respectively, representing approximately 2 and 0.5 times the exposure in humans at the highest recommended dose 400 mg twice daily. When pregnant rats were dosed with nilotinib during organogenesis and through lactation, the adverse effects included a longer gestational period, lower pup body weights until weaning and decreased fertility indices in the pups when they reached maturity, all at a maternal dose of 60 mg/kg (i.e., 360 mg/m 2 , approximately 0.7 times the clinical dose of 400 mg twice daily based on body surface area). At doses up to 20 mg/kg (i.e., 120 mg/m 2 , approximately 0.25 times the clinical dose of 400 mg twice daily based on body surface area) no adverse effects were seen in the maternal animals or the pups. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of nilotinib or its metabolites in human milk or its effects on a breastfed child or on milk production. However, nilotinib is present in the milk of lactating rats. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with nilotinib and for 14 days after the last dose. Animal Data After a single 20 mg/kg of [ 14 C] nilotinib dose to lactating rats, the transfer of parent drug and its metabolites into milk was observed. The overall milk-to-plasma exposure ratio of total radioactivity was approximately 2, based on the AUC 0-24h or AUC 0-INF values. No rat metabolites of nilotinib were detected that were unique to milk. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Based on animal studies, nilotinib can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ]. Pregnancy Testing Females of reproductive potential should have a pregnancy test prior to starting treatment with nilotinib. Contraception Females Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with nilotinib and for 14 days after the last dose. Infertility The risk of infertility in females or males of reproductive potential has not been studied in humans. In studies in rats and rabbits, the fertility in males and females was not affected [ see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of nilotinib have been established in pediatric patients greater than or equal to 1 year of age with newly diagnosed and resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase [see Clinical Studies (14.5 )]. There are no data for pediatric patients under 2 years of age. Use of nilotinib in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 2 years of age with newly diagnosed or resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase is supported by efficacy in pediatric patients 2 to 6 years of age for these indications. Use of nilotinib in pediatric patients 1 to less than 18 years of age is supported by evidence from two clinical trials [see Clinical Studies (14.5 )]. The 25 patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP were in the following age groups: 6 children (age 2 to less than 12 years) and 19 adolescents (age 12 to less than 18 years). The 44 patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML-CP included 18 children (age 2 to less than 12 years) and 26 adolescents (age 12 to less than 18 years). All pediatric patients received nilotinib treatment at a dose of 230 mg/m 2 twice daily, rounded to the nearest 50 mg dose (to a maximum single dose of 400 mg). No differences in efficacy or safety were observed between the different age subgroups in the two trials. The frequency, type, and severity of adverse reactions observed were generally consistent with those observed in adults, with the exception of the laboratory abnormalities of hyperbilirubinemia (Grade 3/4: 16%) and transaminase elevation (AST Grade 3/4: 2.9%, ALT Grade 3/4: 10%), which were reported at a higher frequency in pediatric patients than in adults [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . For pediatric growth and development, growth retardation has been reported in pediatric patients with Ph+ CML-CP treated with nilotinib [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14 ), Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . The safety and effectiveness of nilotinib in pediatric patients below the age of 1 year with newly diagnosed, or resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase and accelerated phase, have not been established. Additional pediatric use information is approved for Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s TASIGNA (nilotinib) capsules. However, due to Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that pediatric information. 8.5 Geriatric Use In the clinical trials of nilotinib (patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP and resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML-CP and CML-AP), approximately 12% and 30% of patients were 65 years or over, respectively. Patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP: There was no difference in major molecular response between patients aged less than 65 years and those greater than or equal to 65 years. Patients with resistant or intolerant CML-CP: There was no difference in major cytogenetic response rate between patients aged less than 65 years and those greater than or equal to 65 years. Patients with resistant or intolerant CML-AP: The hematologic response rate was 44% in patients less than 65 years of age and 29% in patients greater than or equal to 65 years. No major differences for safety were observed in patients greater than or equal to 65 years of age as compared to patients less than 65 years. 8.6 Cardiac Disorders In the clinical trials, patients with a history of uncontrolled or significant cardiovascular disease, including recent myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, unstable angina or clinically significant bradycardia, were excluded. Caution should be exercised in patients with relevant cardiac disorders [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. 8.7 Hepatic Impairment Reduce the nilotinib dosage in patients with hepatic impairment and monitor the QT interval closely in these patients [ see Dosage and Administration (2.7) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ].
Diet
Food & alcohol
- Drug & food interactions (label) 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Strong CYP3A Inhibitors : Avoid concomitant use with nilotinib, or reduce nilotinib dose if coadministration cannot be avoided. ( 7.1 ) Strong CYP3A Inducers : Avoid concomitant use with nilotinib. ( 7.1 ) Proton Pump Inhibitors : Use short-acting antacids or H2 blockers as an alternative to proton pump inhibitors. ( 7.1 ) 7.1 Effect of Other Drugs on Nilotinib Strong CYP3A Inhibitors Concomitant use with a strong CYP3A inhibitor increased nilotinib concentrations compared to nilotinib alone [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , which may increase the risk of nilotinib toxicities. Avoid concomitant use of strong CYP3A inhibitors with nilotinib. If patients must be coadministered a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, reduce nilotinib dose [ see Dosage and Administration (2.8) ] . Strong CYP3A Inducers Concomitant use with a strong CYP3A inducer decreased nilotinib concentrations compared to nilotinib alone [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , which may reduce nilotinib efficacy. Avoid concomitant use of strong CYP3A inducers with nilotinib. Proton Pump Inhibitors Concomitant use with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) decreased nilotinib concentrations compared to nilotinib alone [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , which may reduce nilotinib efficacy. Avoid concomitant use of PPI with nilotinib. As an alternative to PPIs, use H2 blockers approximately 10 hours before or approximately 2 hours after the dose of nilotinib, or use antacids approximately 2 hours before or approximately 2 hours after the dose of nilotinib. 7.2 Drugs That Prolong the QT Interval Avoid coadministration of nilotinib with agents that may prolong the QT interval, such as anti-arrhythmic drugs [ see Boxed Warning , Dosage and Administration (2.4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Drug Interactions (7.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ].
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Sources & disclaimer
Source: Local active-ingredient clinical extract; FDA drug label via OpenFDA/DailyMed; Professional class pharmacology (Therapeutic agent (verify pharmacological class))
Clinical review date not recorded.
Decision support only — not a substitute for clinical judgment, product SmPC, or Kenya STG/EML.