Potential Adverse Reactions Associated with Brukinsa and Strategies for Mitigation

Adverse Effects of Brukinsa: Identifying Them and Strategies for Management

Brukinsa, a drug used for certain blood diseases in adults, is manufactured by BeOne Medicines Germany GmbH. While it can be an effective treatment, it's essential to be aware of its potential side effects and precautions.

One of the most significant risks associated with Brukinsa is bleeding. Symptoms such as blood in the urine or stool, increased bruising, dizziness, weakness, severe bleeding that cannot be controlled, headache that does not go away, and in rare cases, bleeding problems can be serious and even lead to death. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Before starting Brukinsa treatment, it's essential to discuss your health history with your doctor. Particular attention should be given to bleeding problems, high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems, liver problems, alcohol consumption, current or recent infection, previous allergic reaction to Brukinsa or a similar drug, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

It's also important to note that both Brukinsa and alcohol can cause diarrhea as a side effect. Consuming alcohol while taking Brukinsa may worsen diarrhea, which can result in dehydration. Additionally, alcohol may worsen other side effects such as nausea and the risk of bleeding.

Another precaution is sun exposure. It's recommended to avoid sun exposure, sunlamps, and tanning beds while taking Brukinsa. This is because Brukinsa can increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight, potentially leading to sunburn or skin damage. It's important to use sunscreen on skin that's not protected by clothing while taking Brukinsa.

While taking Brukinsa, it's important to inform your doctor if you take a blood thinner or have a bleeding problem. You may have a higher risk of bleeding with Brukinsa if you're also currently taking a blood thinner medication or have a bleeding problem.

It's also worth mentioning that some people have developed new cancers during treatment with Brukinsa, with skin cancer being the most frequent type. If you notice any symptoms of skin cancer, such as a mole that changes colour or size, a patch of skin that is scaly, itchy, or painful, or an open sore that does not heal or heals and returns, call your doctor right away.

In terms of side effects, clinical trials of Brukinsa did not report hair loss or weight gain as side effects. However, peripheral edema (fluid buildup and swelling in the arms, hands, feet, or legs) can be a less common side effect of Brukinsa.

In conclusion, while Brukinsa can be an effective treatment for certain blood diseases, it's crucial to be aware of its potential side effects and precautions. Always discuss your health history with your doctor before starting any new medication, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms.