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Gilteritinib
INFORMATION ABOUT GILTERITINIB
How Gilteritinib works
Gilteritinib works by inhibiting the activity of FLT3, a receptor tyrosine kinase that is often mutated and overactive in certain cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). By blocking FLT3 signaling, it helps disrupt the growth and survival of leukemia cells, ultimately slowing their proliferation and promoting their destruction. This targeted action helps to control the progression of AML and improve treatment outcomes.
Common side effects of Gilteritinib
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Fatigue, Joint pain, Fever, Rash, Diarrhea, Nausea, Cough, Constipation, Mucositis, Edema (swelling), Breathlessness, Increased transaminase level in blood, Eye disorder, Headache, Dizziness, Vomiting, Renal impairment, Hypotension (low blood pressure)
CONTENT DETAILS
Written By
Dr. Anuj Saini
MMST, MBBS
Reviewed By
Dr. Rajeev Sharma
MBA, MBBS
Last updated
28 Mar 2025 | 06:01 AM (UTC)
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Expert advice for Gilteritinib
  • Your doctor will monitor your liver and kidney function regularly while you are on Gilteritinib. Be sure to attend all scheduled appointments for blood tests and other evaluations.
  • Always tell your doctor about any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications may interact with Gilteritinib, affecting its effectiveness or increasing side effects.
  • Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to help manage potential side effects like nausea or fatigue.
  • Like many cancer treatments, Gilteritinib may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure to protect your skin.
  • Gilteritinib is used for the treatment of thyroid cancer.
  • Take it with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.
  • Diarrhea may occur as a side effect. Drink plenty of fluids and inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools.
  • Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine and for a month after you stop taking it.
  • Monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Inform your doctor if you notice symptoms of very high blood pressure such as severe headache, confusion, problems with your eyesight, nausea or vomiting.
  • It may cause serious bleeding problem. Inform your doctor if you get headaches, stomach pain or if you notice blood in your urine or stools.
  • Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Gilteritinib
Gilteritinib is taken orally. Your doctor will provide the exact dosage and schedule based on your condition. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and take the medication regularly.
Gilteritinib is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It can harm an unborn baby and should not be used by pregnant women unless absolutely necessary and prescribed by a doctor. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment to prevent pregnancy. Similarly, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Gilteritinib and for at least two months after the final dose, as the medication may pass into breast milk and harm the infant. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before starting treatment with Gilteritinib.
Gilteritinib is specifically used for treating relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with FLT3 mutations. It may not be suitable for other types of leukemia. Your doctor will assess your condition and determine the best treatment approach for you.
If you have kidney or liver problems, you should inform your doctor before starting Gilteritinib. Regular blood tests may be conducted to evaluate how well your liver and kidneys are functioning during the course of treatment. Always follow your doctor’s guidance and avoid taking Gilteritinib without medical advice if you have underlying kidney or liver conditions.