From the Guidelines
Dasatinib can cause constipation, although it is less frequent compared to other gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. According to the European LeukemiaNet recommendations for the management and avoidance of adverse events of treatment in chronic myeloid leukemia 1, gastrointestinal side effects are frequently reported toxicities of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), but constipation is less common. The study published in Leukemia in 2016 1 summarizes the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events, including constipation, associated with different TKIs, including dasatinib. While the exact incidence of constipation with dasatinib is not specified in the provided text, it is mentioned that dyspepsia and constipation are less frequent side effects compared to nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Another study published in the same journal in 2016 1 provides more detailed information on the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events, including constipation, associated with different TKIs, but the data on constipation with dasatinib is not explicitly stated. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that constipation is a possible side effect of dasatinib, although less common than other gastrointestinal side effects. If you experience constipation while taking dasatinib, it is essential to stay well-hydrated, maintain physical activity as tolerated, and consume a diet rich in fiber. Over-the-counter stool softeners or mild laxatives may help manage this side effect, but you should consult your healthcare provider before adding any medications. The constipation may occur because tyrosine kinase inhibitors like dasatinib can affect the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract by interfering with cellular signaling pathways involved in gut motility. If constipation becomes severe or is accompanied by severe abdominal pain or other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly as dose adjustments or additional management strategies may be necessary. Key points to consider when managing constipation associated with dasatinib include:
- Staying well-hydrated
- Maintaining physical activity as tolerated
- Consuming a diet rich in fiber
- Consulting your healthcare provider before adding any medications to manage constipation
- Monitoring for severe abdominal pain or other concerning symptoms that may require dose adjustments or additional management strategies.
From the FDA Drug Label
The most common side effects of dasatinib tablets in children receiving dasatinib tablets with chemotherapy include:
- swelling,
- pain and redness of the lining of your mouth, throat, stomach and bowel (mucositis)
- tiredness
- low white blood cell counts with fever
- fever
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
- muscle pain
- stomach (abdominal) pain
- cough
- headache
- rash
- constipation
- abnormal heart rate
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- swelling
- infections
- low blood pressure
- decreased appetite
- allergic reactions
- shortness of breath
- nose bleed
- numbness or tingling of your hands and feet
- feeling confused or disoriented Most common adverse reactions (≥30%) in pediatric patients receiving dasatinib in combination with chemotherapy included
- mucositis,
- febrile neutropenia,
- pyrexia,
- diarrhea,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- musculoskeletal pain,
- abdominal pain,
- cough,
- headache,
- rash,
- fatigue,
- constipation,
- arrhythmia,
- hypertension,
- edema,
- infections (bacterial, viral and fungal),
- hypotension,
- decreased appetite,
- hypersensitivity,
- dyspnea,
- epistaxis,
- peripheral neuropathy,
- and altered state of consciousness.
Dasatinib can cause constipation in some patients, as it is listed as one of the common side effects of the medication, especially in pediatric patients receiving dasatinib in combination with chemotherapy 2, 2, and 2.
From the Research
Dasatanib and Constipation
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that Dasatanib causes constipation 3, 4.
- The studies on Dasatanib primarily discuss its use in treating haematological malignancies and its side effects, such as myelosuppression, pleural effusion, and colitis 3, 4.
- None of the studies on Dasatanib mention constipation as a side effect 3, 4.
- Other studies provide information on the treatment of constipation, but do not mention Dasatanib as a cause of constipation 5, 6, 7.
- The treatment of constipation is discussed in several studies, including the use of laxatives, dietary changes, and other management strategies 5, 6, 7.