Cavhanza (Nilotinib) - Uses, Side Effects, and More

What are the most common side effects of Cavhanza?

The most common side effects of Cavhanza are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
• Rash or itching
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Cough
• Joint pain
• Infection in the nose or throat, sore throat, or common cold symptoms
• Fever or night sweats
• Blood disorders (see below)

There may be other side effects of Cavhanza that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Cavhanza?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Cavhanza are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Cavhanza may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking Cavhanza and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Racing heart
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Itching or skin rash
• Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain

Heart Rhythm Changes. Cavhanza may cause a rare, dangerous heart rhythm problem called QT prolongation and torsade de pointes. Some people have a higher risk of this, including people who are older, have other people in their family who have had these conditions, have low potassium or magnesium levels, or who take medicines that can prolong the QT interval. Keep all medical appointments while taking Cavhanza. Your health care provider will likely have your heart rhythm checked before you start the medicine and while you are taking it. Tell your health care provider right away if you feel lightheaded, faint, or have changes in your heart rate or rhythm, such as a fast or skipping heartbeat.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome. Cavhanza can cause a fast breakdown of cancer cells. This can lead to a condition called tumor lysis syndrome, which can be serious. It is important to drink plenty of water while taking Cavhanza and to keep all appointments for blood work so your health care provider can see how your body is responding to Cavhanza. Tell your health care provider right away if you have any of the following signs of tumor lysis syndrome while taking Cavhanza. 

• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness
• Swelling or fluid retention
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle cramps
• Seizures

Blood Disorders. Cavhanza can cause blood disorders, low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia), low levels of red blood cells (anemia), and low levels of certain white blood cells called neutrophils (neutropenia). Keep all of your appointments, including those for lab work, while you are taking Cavhanza. Get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of blood disorders.

• Fever, chills, or other signs of an infection
• Shortness of breath
• Pale or yellowish skin
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Unusual weakness or tiredness
• Cold hands and feet
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling like you are about to pass out
• Headache
• Fast or abnormal heartbeat

Heart Attack and Stroke. Cavhanza can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke that can lead to death. This risk is higher in people who already have heart disease and with longer use of Cavhanza and higher doses. Do not take Cavhanza if you have had a recent heart attack without talking to your health care provider. This could increase your risk of having another heart attack. Get emergency help if you have any of the following symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.

• Chest pain or pressure
• Fast or abnormal heartbeat
• Trouble breathing
• Pain in your back, jaw, throat, or arm
• Sweating, upset stomach, vomiting, or dizziness
• Sudden weakness on one side of your body
• Sudden and severe headache
• Slurred speech or trouble understanding speech

Inflammation of the Pancreas (Pancreatitis). Cavhanza may cause inflammation of the pancreas, which is called pancreatitis. Your health care provider will likely check blood tests regularly to monitor your pancreas while you are taking this medicine. Keep all appointments, including those for lab work. Get medical help right away if you have symptoms of pancreatitis, including vomiting or severe pain in the upper part of your belly that travels to your back.

Liver Damage. Liver damage, also called hepatotoxicity, can happen when taking Cavhanza. Your health care provider will likely check blood tests regularly to monitor your liver while you are taking this medicine. Keep all appointments, including those for lab work. Call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of liver damage.

• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach or belly pain
• Fever
• Weakness or unusual tiredness
• Itching
• Loss of appetite
• Light-colored poop
• Dark-colored urine (pee)
• Your skin or the whites of your eyes turning yellowish in color (also called jaundice)

Severe Bleeding. Cavhanza can increase your risk of severe bleeding that can lead to death. Some people with serious bleeding may need a blood transfusion or surgery. Call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following signs of severe bleeding while taking Cavhanza.

• Pink, red, or brown urine (pee)
• Vomit with blood that looks like coffee grounds
• Red or black stools (looks like tar)
• Coughing up blood or blood clots
• Changes in your vision
• Sudden headache
• Sudden confusion
• Loss of consciousness

Fluid Retention (Edema). Cavhanza can cause fluid retention, also called edema. Fluid retention can cause serious issues in people with certain conditions, such as heart failure or kidney problems. Call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms. 

• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Stretched or shiny skin
• Swollen body parts, such as the belly or ankles
• Rapid weight gain

Slowed Growth in Children. Cavhanza, when taken by children, can slow down growth. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider if you have concerns about your child’s growth.