Dasatinib is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It belongs to a class of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which work by blocking the action of abnormal proteins that promote the growth of cancer cells.
To understand how dasatinib works, let's imagine our body as a busy city, and inside it, there are many buildings representing different cells. Sometimes, some of these cells, like the ones in leukemia, start growing and multiplying uncontrollably, causing cancer. Dasatinib acts like a superhero that targets specific proteins inside these cancer cells, disrupting their growth and preventing them from spreading further.
One of the main proteins targeted by dasatinib is called BCR-ABL, which plays a key role in the development of CML. In CML, a genetic mutation leads to the production of an abnormal protein called BCR-ABL, which drives the growth of leukemia cells. Dasatinib blocks the activity of this abnormal protein, slowing down the growth and progression of CML.
In addition to targeting BCR-ABL, dasatinib also inhibits other proteins involved in cancer growth, such as SRC family kinases. By blocking these proteins, dasatinib helps to further suppress the growth and survival of cancer cells.
Dasatinib is typically taken as a tablet by mouth, usually once a day. The dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, as well as the individual's response to the medication.
Like many cancer treatments, dasatinib can cause side effects. Some common side effects include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and low blood cell counts. These side effects can vary in severity from person to person, and not everyone will experience them. It's essential to talk to your doctor about any side effects you experience so they can be managed effectively.
Despite the potential side effects, dasatinib has been shown to be effective in treating certain types of leukemia, particularly CML. It can help control the disease, improve symptoms, and prolong survival for many patients.
Before starting treatment with dasatinib, patients should discuss their medical history and any other medications they're taking with their healthcare provider to ensure it's safe and appropriate for them. It's also important to communicate openly with your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have during treatment.
In summary, dasatinib is a targeted therapy that works by blocking the action of abnormal proteins in cancer cells, helping to slow down the growth and spread of leukemia. While it can cause side effects, it's an important treatment option for many patients with CML and ALL, offering hope for better outcomes and improved quality of life.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist
Dasatinib
Dasatinib is like a superhero medicine that fights certain types of cancer, especially chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Imagine your body as a big city, and inside it, there are different cells doing different jobs. Sometimes, some cells, like the ones in leukemia, start growing out of control and causing trouble.Dasatinib steps in to stop this. It targets specific proteins inside these cancer cells, disrupting their growth and preventing them from spreading further. One of the main proteins it targets is called BCR-ABL, which is responsible for driving the growth of leukemia cells in CML.By blocking the action of these abnormal proteins, dasatinib helps slow down the growth and progression of cancer. It's like putting a stop sign in front of the cancer cells, preventing them from multiplying and causing more harm to the body.In simple terms, dasatinib works by targeting and stopping the proteins that make cancer cells grow uncontrollably, helping to control the disease and improve outcomes for patients.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist