What condition does Ibrutinib treat?
Ibrutinib is used for the treatment of certain cancers such as:
- Mantle cell lymphoma
- Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia
- Small lymphocytic lymphoma
This medication may also be used to treat a certain problem that may occur after a stem cell transplant. It is also called chronic graft versus host disease.
Ibrutinib belongs to the class of medications known as kinase inhibitors. This product is supplied as tablets for oral administration. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this prescription.
How does Ibrutinib work?
Ibrutinib works in contradiction of cancerous B lymphocytes. These are a type of white blood cells affected by these diseases. It is by blocking an enzyme called Bruton’s tyrosine kinase. Wherein, it promotes the survival of B lymphocytes. It also promotes their movement to the organs where these cells usually divide. By blocking Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, this drug decreases the survival and migration of B lymphocytes. Thereby it delays the development of cancer.
What is the recommended dosage for Ibrutinib?
The recommended dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response. It is important to take each dose exactly as it is prescribed.
Take the drug by mouth with a full glass of water. It is usually taken once a day. You may take each dose with or without food. Swallow the medication as a whole. After taking the medicine, wash your hands properly. Remember to take it in the same way and at the same time every day. Let your doctor know if your condition persists or worsens.
Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit while using this medicine unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Also, avoid eating Seville oranges. These can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
What are the side effects of Ibrutinib?
- Diarrhea
- Low platelet count
- Anemia
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Fever
- Cough
- Swelling of the extremities
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Weakness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Decreased appetite
- Dehydration
What are the precautions in taking Ibrutinib?
- This medicine can make you more likely to get infections. avoid contact with people with an infection such as flu, measles, or chickenpox.
- Tell your doctor if you have any medical history or current medications including vitamins, food supplements, or herbal products.
- Inform your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction to this drug or you have any other allergies. This drug may contain an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
- Do not share this or any of your prescriptions with others even if they have the same symptoms as yours.
- Do not take more than one dose of this medicine at one time. Call your health care provider and go to the emergency room right away if you take too much.
- Since this medication can be absorbed through the lungs and skin and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant must not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the drug.
- Keep this at a dry and clean place away from heat and moisture.
