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Acalabrutinib

This page provides concise information on the drug acalabrutinib, including its indications, dosage and administration details, mechanism of action, associated brands with strengths, warnings, and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Acalabrutinib is an anticancer medication containing the active ingredient acalabrutinib, classified under Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors. Initially sanctioned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 31, 2017, it was approved for the treatment of adult patients with mantle cell lymphoma who have undergone at least one prior therapy. Subsequently, on August 17, 2020, the FDA granted approval for its use in the treatment of adult patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or small lymphocytic lymphoma.

Mechanism of Action of Acalabrutinib

Acalabrutinib operates by inhibiting the activity of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK), a crucial protein for the survival and proliferation of cancer cells in specific types of lymphomas and leukemias. Through the blockade of BTK, it effectively hinders the growth and dissemination of cancer cells, potentially resulting in decreased tumor size, amelioration of symptoms, and a postponement in disease progression.

Uses of Acalabrutinib

Acalabrutinib is employed in the treatment of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). These conditions encompass cancers affecting white blood cells known as lymphocytes, integral components of the immune system.

Acalabrutinib Drug administaration and Dosage available

Typically, healthcare providers administer Acalabrutinib through injection. The precise administration method may vary based on the treated condition and healthcare provider’s guidance. In case of a missed dose, patients should consult their healthcare provider for further instructions.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Acalabrutinib

Warnings

Acalabrutinib comes with multiple warnings concerning potential risks and side effects. The medication may elevate the risk of serious infections, bleeding, irregular heart rhythms, and lung inflammation. Additionally, there’s an increased risk of developing other types of cancer, especially skin cancer. Patients with a history of heart disease, bleeding disorders, or liver disease may face an elevated risk of complications while using this medication.

Precautions

Prior to commencing treatment, patients should disclose any medical conditions, including heart disease, bleeding disorders, or liver disease, to their healthcare provider. Due to the medication’s potential to increase the risk of bleeding, patients should refrain from activities that could heighten the risk of injury, such as contact sports. Any instances of unusual bleeding or bruising should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider. Additionally, patients should inform both their dentist and healthcare provider if a dental procedure is needed, as acalabrutinib can elevate the risk of bleeding.

Side Effects

Typical side effects might encompass headache, diarrhea, fatigue, and muscle aches. Severe side effects could involve bleeding, infections, heart rhythm issues, and lung inflammation. There is also a potential heightened risk of developing other types of cancer with the use of acalabrutinib.

Word Of Advice

If you’ve been prescribed Acalabrutinib, it’s crucial to thoroughly read and comprehend the associated warnings and precautions. Patients should be vigilant for signs of allergic reactions and regularly monitor their blood pressure, reporting any abnormalities to their doctor. Any development of skin lesions or changes in skin appearance should be promptly reported. Due to an increased risk of infection, patients should steer clear of close contact with infected individuals. Close monitoring is essential for patients with diabetes during treatment. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are contraindicated during Acalabrutinib treatment. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is advised to support overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Question

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.
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.
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
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.
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.

References

  1. AstraZeneca, Electronica medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2020], [ Accessed on 5th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.11917.pdf
  2. 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
  3. 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/

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.