Tasigna and atherosclerosis have been recently linked in scientific studies, which has spurred major concern in the medical community. Over a dozen studies from around the world have linked Tasigna and atherosclerosis, which means that a patients’ health condition could be further complicated by the popular cancer treatment drug.

Tasigna and atherosclerosis did not become associated until recently, when the FDA ordered that atherosclerosis risk be added to the medication’s warning label. The FDA issued this warning after reviewing different studies from the United States, Canada, and Europe, which all indicated a correlation between Tasigna and atherosclerosis.

The first study to analyze the alleged link between Tasigna and atherosclerosis, in 2011, discovered that around 25 percent of Tasigna patients experienced vascular problems, while 16 percent of patients developed peripheral arterial disease (PAD) after taking the medication.

Two years after that study, nine more studies indicating a link between Tasigna and atherosclerosis were released in 2013, including a postmarket review from the FDA. This postmarket review included the Tasigna injury reports that were submitted in the United States, along with research efforts from the United States, Canada, and Europe.

The FDA stated the research findings “strongly suggest an association between nilotinib (Tasigna) and PAOD (peripheral arterial occlusive disease).”

Overview of Tasigna and Atherosclerosis Correlation

Tasigna was approved by the FDA in 2007 as a treatment drug for patients suffering from chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It is one of the most prominent treatment drugs for CML, which is a slow growing cancer that affects bone marrow and red blood cells.

CML has been linked to an abnormal Philadelphia chromosome, which causes the body to make too many white blood cells. Tasigna works by inhibiting the reproduction of the cancer cells, which ultimately slows the progression of CML.

Even though Tasigna is an important medication for the CML patient population, there has been significant concern over serious drug side effects for years. Even before the Tasigna and atherosclerosis correlation was first noticed, there was significant concern over potential drug side effects; the FDA issued a Black Box warning label upon the drug’s release.

Atherosclerosis and PAD

Atherosclerosis is a serious cardiovascular condition, which is described as the narrowing or hardening of the arteries. It can potentially evolve into peripheral arterial disease (PAD). When the arteries harden, plaque builds up and can significantly slow down the flow of blood.

If the arteries become too narrow it can cause peripheral arterial disease, which can lead to serious complications like amputation. Patients who have PAD often feel pain or weakness in the arms, stomach and head, which can often be felt while performing physical activities like walking or climbing stairs.

Generally the more active the patient is, the more likely they are suffering PAD symptoms. It is important to note that the effects of this condition are permanent, and can cause a carotid artery or stroke if left untreated.

Patients who are prescribed the CML medication and are concerned over the risk of Tasigna and atherosclerosis should be wary against any unusual symptoms, including:

• Chest Pain or Discomfort
• Numbness or Weakness
• Problems Walking or Speaking
• Pain in Legs
• Legs Feeling Cold
• Skin Color Changes in Legs