​Enasidenib Side Effects

Enasidenib Side Effects

Enasidenib may cause a life-threatening side effect called differentiation syndrome. This syndrome can occur as early as 1 day after the first dose and up to 5 months later, and if not treated promptly, it can be fatal.

During treatment, contact your healthcare provider immediately or go to the emergency room if you develop any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, shortness of breath, swelling in your arms and legs, swelling in your neck, groin, or armpit areas, rapid weight gain of more than 10 pounds (about 4.5 kg) within a week, bone pain.

If these signs occur, your doctor may prescribe oral or intravenous corticosteroids and may arrange for hospital monitoring.

Health Conditions and Precautions to Tell Your Doctor Before Taking Enasidenib

Before starting enasidenib, be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the following:

Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or suspect you are pregnant, because enasidenib may harm the fetus. For women of childbearing potential, a pregnancy test is required before starting treatment, and effective contraception should be used during treatment and for 2 months after the last dose. Note that enasidenib may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, so it is recommended to also use a non-hormonal method of contraception.

Male Patients

If your partner is of childbearing potential, you should also use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 2 months after the last dose.

Fertility

Enasidenib may affect fertility in both females and males; consult your doctor if you have concerns.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. You should not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 months after the last dose.

Other Medications

Tell your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking.

Proper Administration and Monitoring Requirements for Enasidenib

Dosage and Administration

Take exactly as prescribed, once daily at the same time each day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with 8 ounces (about 240 mL) of water. Do not chew, split, or crush the tablet.

Missed Dose or Vomiting

If you miss a dose or vomit after taking the drug on the same day, take the missed dose as soon as possible on that same day, and then take the next dose at the scheduled time the next day. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Treatment Monitoring

Before starting treatment and during the initial phase (at least the first 3 months), your doctor will perform blood tests at least every 2 weeks to monitor your blood cell counts and evaluate side effects.