Bosutinib – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Friday, August 17, 2018 by Zoey Sky

Bosutinib (brand name: Bosulif) helps prevent the growth of some cancer cells. The drug is given to patients with a type of blood cancer called Philadelphia-chromosome positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML).

Bosutinib is often used as a last resort after other treatments have failed.

Known health risks or side effects of bosutinib

Bosutinib may cause common side effects such as appetite loss, change in ability to taste food, a headache, ringing in the ears, or tiredness/weakness.

You may require immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as:

Blood in stool or urine
Change in the frequency of urination or increase/decrease in the amount of urine
Chest pain
A cough and shortness of breath
Dark/tea-colored urine
Diarrhea
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Dizziness
Hives, itching, or rash
Jaundice/yellowing of the skin and eyes
Nausea
Signs of infection (e.g., chills, fever, or a sore throat)
Sudden pain near the stomach area
Sudden weight gain
Swelling of the ankles, face, feet, hands, or lower legs
Unexplained bleeding or bruising
Vomiting

List of organs that might be affected by bosutinib

An overdose of bosutinib can cause complications like an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing; hives; or the swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to bosutinib

The following foods or nutrients have similar effects to bosutinib, and they can help increase platelet count:

Folate – Folate, a B vitamin, helps the blood cells. Natural folate sources include black-eyed peas, kidney beans, oranges/orange juice, and peanuts.
Iron – The body requires iron to produce healthy blood cells. Iron can also help increase platelet counts in individuals with iron-deficiency anemia. Iron-rich food sources include beef, lentils, mussels, and pumpkin seeds.
Vitamin B-12 – A deficiency of vitamin B-12 is linked to low platelet counts. Consuming foods rich in vitamin B-12 can help keep the blood cells healthy. Sources include animal-based like beef liver, clams, and eggs.
Vitamin C – Vitamin C helps the platelets group together and function efficiently. The vitamin also boosts iron absorption, which can help increase platelet counts. Sources include broccoli, cauliflower, green or red bell peppers, mangoes, pineapple, and tomatoes.

Treatment and management options for the side effects of bosutinib

The following treatments and management options can help prevent the side effects associated with bosutinib:

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) – If you have a fever, consume some ACV. Apple cider vinegar can help reduce a fever quickly since it contains acid that helps draw heat from the skin. Mix two teaspoons of ACV and a tablespoon of honey in a glass of water. Drink this mixture two or three times daily.
Licorice – If you’re feeling weak, consume some licorice root. This herb can help address the different symptoms of weakness. Licorice can trigger the adrenal hormones naturally produced by the body and give your energy and metabolism a boost. Combine a teaspoon of licorice powder and two teaspoons of honey in a glass of warm milk. Drink the mixture twice daily for an energy boost.
Limiting your fluid intake – If you’re suffering from appetite loss, try to limit your fluid intake. However, hydration is important, so you need to limit your fluid intake during and between meals. Try to sip fluids slowly instead of gulping them. If you have trouble eating solid foods, limit your fluid intake to calorie-dense and nutrient-rich fluids like cream-based soups, oatmeal with whole milk or cream, or vitamin-fortified protein shakes.