What is Asciminib used for?

chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with the Philadelphia chromosome, as a first treatment or after other pills; CML with the T315I change.

What are the common side effects of Asciminib?

Cold symptoms, like a stuffy nose or sore throat. Muscle, bone, or joint pain. Headache. Feeling tired. Nausea or diarrhea. Rash. Low blood counts, found on blood tests.

When should I call my care team while taking Asciminib?

A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, chills, or other signs of infection; Bleeding that will not stop, black or bloody stools, or coughing up blood; Bad belly pain that may spread to your back; Chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling in your legs; Bad headache, or blood pressure higher than your team told you to expect; Hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.

Asciminib

Say it: uh-SIM-ih-nib · Brand names: Scemblix

Asciminib is a targeted pill that blocks the abnormal protein that drives chronic myeloid leukemia in a new way.

What it is

In chronic myeloid leukemia, an abnormal protein called BCR-ABL tells blood cells to grow out of control. Most pills block one spot on this protein. Asciminib grabs a different spot and locks it in an off shape.

Often used for

chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with the Philadelphia chromosome, as a first treatment or after other pills
CML with the T315I change

How you get it

It is a pill you take by mouth once or twice a day on an empty stomach. Do not eat for 2 hours before and 1 hour after each dose. Many people take it for years. Your schedule may be different.

Common side effects and what helps

Cold symptoms, like a stuffy nose or sore throat. Wash your hands often.
Muscle, bone, or joint pain. Stretch gently and ask your team what pain medicine is safe.
Headache. Drink fluids and rest.
Feeling tired. Rest when you need to and take short walks when you can.
Nausea or diarrhea. Eat small meals and drink plenty of fluids.
Rash. Use gentle soap and moisturizer.
Low blood counts, found on blood tests. Your team will check them.

Call your care team right away if you have

A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, chills, or other signs of infection
Bleeding that will not stop, black or bloody stools, or coughing up blood
Bad belly pain that may spread to your back
Chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling in your legs
Bad headache, or blood pressure higher than your team told you to expect
Hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing

Before you start, tell your team

If you have heart problems, high blood pressure, or pancreas problems
If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
All the medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you take, since some can change how this medicine works

Good to know

You will have blood counts checked every 2 weeks for the first 3 months, then monthly.
You will have blood tests for pancreas enzymes and checks of your blood pressure.
Heart and blood vessel problems can happen, especially in people with risk factors.
This medicine can harm an unborn baby. Ask your team about birth control during treatment and for a while after.

At home

Take it on an empty stomach. Do not eat for 2 hours before and 1 hour after each dose.
Swallow the pills whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or split them unless your team says it is OK.
If you miss a dose or throw up after a dose, ask your team what to do. Do not take an extra dose on your own.
Store the pills at room temperature in their original container, away from children and pets.
Wash your hands after touching the pills. Ask your team if others in your home should take special care.

Questions to ask

How long will I take this medicine?
How often will I have blood tests to check how well it is working?
Are any of my other medicines, foods, or supplements a problem with this medicine?
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Which side effects should I call you about right away, and which can wait?

Side effect guides

Sources

Quick answers

What is Asciminib?: Asciminib is a targeted pill that blocks the abnormal protein that drives chronic myeloid leukemia in a new way. Brand names: Scemblix.
What is Asciminib used for?: chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with the Philadelphia chromosome, as a first treatment or after other pills; CML with the T315I change.
How is Asciminib given?: It is a pill you take by mouth once or twice a day on an empty stomach. Do not eat for 2 hours before and 1 hour after each dose. Many people take it for years. Your schedule may be different.
What are the common side effects of Asciminib?: Cold symptoms, like a stuffy nose or sore throat. Muscle, bone, or joint pain. Headache. Feeling tired. Nausea or diarrhea. Rash. Low blood counts, found on blood tests.
When should I call my care team while taking Asciminib?: A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, chills, or other signs of infection; Bleeding that will not stop, black or bloody stools, or coughing up blood; Bad belly pain that may spread to your back; Chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling in your legs; Bad headache, or blood pressure higher than your team told you to expect; Hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.

Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.