ACALABRUTINIB
Background and Date of Approval
Acalabrutinib is an anticancer medicine containing the active constituent acalabrutinib. It belongs to a class of drugs called Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors. Acalabrutinib received FDA approval on October 31, 2017, for treatment of adult patients with mantle cell lymphoma who have received at least one prior therapy. FDA approval was extended on August 17, 2020, to include adult patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or small lymphocytic lymphoma.
Uses
Acalabrutinib is used to treat mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). MCL, CLL, and SLL are cancers of the white blood cells called lymphocytes that are part of the immune system.
How is it administered?
Acalabrutinib is typically administered through injection by a healthcare provider. The specific method of administration may vary depending on the condition being treated and the healthcare provider's instructions. If a dose is missed, the patient should contact their healthcare provider for further instructions.
Side Effects
Common side effects may include headache, diarrhea, fatigue, and muscle aches. Serious side effects may include bleeding, infections, heart rhythm problems, and lung inflammation. Acalabrutinib may also increase the risk of developing other types of cancer.
Warnings
Acalabrutinib carries several warnings regarding its potential risks and side effects. The medication may increase the risk of serious infections, bleeding, irregular heart rhythms, and lung inflammation. It may also increase the risk of developing other types of cancer, particularly skin cancer. Patients with a history of heart disease, bleeding disorders, or liver disease may be at increased risk of experiencing complications while taking it.
Precautions
Before starting treatment, patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medical conditions, including heart disease, bleeding disorders, or liver disease. It can increase the risk of bleeding, so patients should avoid activities that may increase the risk of injury, such as contact sports, and inform their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual bleeding or bruising. Patients should also inform their dentist and healthcare provider if they need a dental procedure, as acalabrutinib can increase the risk of bleeding.
Word of Advice
Acalabrutinib requires careful attention to its associated warnings and precautions. Patients with this medication should be monitored for signs of allergic reaction. The drug can elevate blood pressure; regular blood pressure monitoring is advisable. Any new skin lesion or change in appearance of a skin area should be reported to your doctor. Because the medication increases infection risk, patients should minimise close contact with individuals who have infections. Patients with diabetes need close monitoring throughout treatment. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are contraindicated during treatment. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet supports overall health and well-being during therapy.
References
AstraZeneca, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on Oct 2017], [ Accessed on 5th May 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/210259s000lbl.pdf John C Byrd et al; Acalabrutinib monotherapy in patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia: updated phase 2 results; Blood; Published on April 2020; [Accessed on5th May 2023]; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31876911/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take acalabrutinib if I have a history of bleeding disorders?
Patients with a history of bleeding disorders may have an increased risk of bleeding while taking acalabrutinib. Before starting treatment, your healthcare provider will evaluate your bleeding risk and may recommend additional monitoring or precautions.
Can I take acalabrutinib if I have a history of heart disease?
Acalabrutinib can cause cardiac effects, including irregular heartbeat and atrial fibrillation. Patients with a history of heart disease should be closely monitored while taking it. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional monitoring or precautions.
How will Acalabrutinib affect my blood?
Acalabrutinib can affect your blood in several ways. It may cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This can lead to anemia, infections, and an increased risk of bleeding.
Can I take this medication if I have diabetes?
Patients can take Acalabrutinib with diabetes, but it is important to monitor blood sugar levels closely while taking this medication. It can cause an increase in blood sugar levels in some patients, which may require adjustments in diabetes medications or insulin dosages.
Can I Go for Tooth extraction while taking this medication?
Patients taking acalabrutinib should inform their dentist if they need a tooth extraction or other dental procedures. This is because it can increase the risk of bleeding and impair wound healing. Your dentist and healthcare provider may recommend temporarily stopping treatment before the dental procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.