WARNING

Copiktra (duvelisib) is a medication used to treat certain types of blood cancers. While it can be effective, it also carries several risks, including:

• Infections: Increased risk of serious infections due to immune system suppression.
• Diarrhea: Can cause severe diarrhea or colitis, requiring monitoring and management.
• Liver Issues: Potential for liver toxicity; liver function tests are necessary.
• Pulmonary Toxicity: Risk of lung problems, including pneumonitis.
• Cytopenias: Can lead to low blood cell counts, increasing infection and bleeding risks.
• Skin Reactions: May cause rash or other skin reactions.

Always discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Copiktra (duvelisib) is prescribed primarily for the treatment of certain types of blood cancers, specifically:

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): A type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.
• Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A related type of cancer that involves lymphoid tissue.
• Follicular Lymphoma: A slow-growing form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines on how Copiktra should be used:

• Dosage: Typically taken orally, often in capsule form. The usual starting dose is 25 mg twice daily.
• Administration: Take the capsules with food to enhance absorption.
• Consistency: Take at the same times each day to maintain even levels of the medication in your system.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments for blood tests and monitoring of liver function and other potential side effects are essential.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and use.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to its primary indications for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and follicular lymphoma, Copiktra may also be investigated for:

• Other Hematologic Malignancies: Research is ongoing into its efficacy for various other blood cancers.
• Combination Therapies: Sometimes used in combination with other treatments in clinical trials.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Copiktra:

• Infection Risk: Monitor for signs of infection. Report fever, chills, or other symptoms to your doctor immediately.
• Liver Function: Regularly check liver function tests, as Copiktra can cause liver toxicity.
• Diarrhea Management: Be vigilant for diarrhea or abdominal pain; report severe symptoms to your healthcare provider.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy; effective contraception is advised. Discuss breastfeeding with your doctor.
• Blood Cell Counts: Regular blood tests are essential to monitor for cytopenias (low blood cell counts).
• Pulmonary Symptoms: Watch for respiratory issues such as cough or difficulty breathing and inform your doctor if these occur.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding your treatment with Copiktra.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• With Food: Take Copiktra with food to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
• Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, especially if experiencing diarrhea.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take as Soon as Remembered: If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as possible.
• Skip if Close to Next Dose: If it’s close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Consult Your Doctor: Always inform your healthcare provider about missed doses for personalized guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Copiktra (duvelisib) can cause a range of side effects, including:

• Infections: Increased risk of serious infections due to immune suppression.
• Diarrhea: Severe diarrhea or colitis can occur, often requiring management.
• Liver Issues: Potential liver toxicity, indicated by elevated liver enzymes.
• Pulmonary Toxicity: Risk of lung problems, including pneumonitis.
• Cytopenias: Low blood cell counts, leading to increased risk of infection and bleeding.
• Fatigue: General tiredness and weakness.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Common gastrointestinal side effects.
• Rash: Skin reactions, including rashes or itching.
• Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or pain in the abdominal area.
• Headache: May experience headaches as a side effect.

Always discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider and report any unusual symptoms promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Copiktra:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
• Container: Keep in the original container and tightly closed.

Disposal:

• Unused Medication: Dispose of any unused or expired Copiktra safely. Follow local guidelines for medication disposal or take it to a pharmacy take-back program.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Signs of Overdose: If you suspect an overdose (e.g., severe symptoms like prolonged diarrhea, liver issues), seek immediate medical attention.
• Contact Poison Control: Call your local poison control center for guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Routine blood tests and liver function tests are essential during treatment.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Always inform your doctors and healthcare providers about your Copiktra treatment, especially before any new medications or procedures.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss family planning and breastfeeding with your doctor, as Copiktra is not recommended during pregnancy.
• Adherence to Treatment: Take Copiktra exactly as prescribed to ensure its effectiveness.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and information related to your specific situation.