Tyrosine kinase inhibitor (cancer medicine)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Nilotinib is a cancer medicine that works by blocking a specific abnormal protein that causes certain blood cancer cells to grow out of control, helping to stop the cancer from spreading.
Inhibits the BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase and other related kinases (c-KIT, PDGFR), blocking the abnormal proliferation signal in chronic myeloid leukaemia cells and inducing their apoptosis. This targeted inhibition suppresses the uncontrolled production of abnormal white blood cells characteristic of CML.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For newly diagnosed patients, the usual dose is two 150 mg capsules (300 mg) taken twice a day — once in the morning and once in the evening, about 12 hours apart. Very important: take it on an empty stomach. Do not eat for at least 2 hours before and 1 hour after taking the capsule. Swallow the capsule whole with water. Your doctor will decide your exact dose based on your condition.
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed one.
Only buy Tasigna from reputable pharmacies or hospitals — this is a specialist cancer drug and fake versions can be extremely dangerous. Do not stop taking this medicine or change the dose on your own, even if you feel better. Always attend your regular blood tests and doctor appointments as your doctor needs to monitor your blood counts and heart closely.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as they increase the drug level dangerously in your body. Some common medicines like ketoconazole (antifungal) and rifampicin (used for TB treatment) can seriously interact with nilotinib — always tell your doctor about every medicine you are taking. Avoid alcohol as it can put extra stress on your liver.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Nilotinib with your other drugs?
Nilotinib is not safe during pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby, and breastfeeding should be avoided while on this medicine — talk to your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity — Nigerian heat can damage this medicine. Always keep it in the original packaging and far out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Nilotinib?
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