Why is this medication prescribed?

Calquence (acalabrutinib) is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of certain types of cancers, specifically:

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): It is used in patients with CLL who have received at least one prior therapy.
• Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL): It is used in patients with MCL who have received at least one prior therapy.

Calquence belongs to a class of drugs called Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors. It works by blocking the BTK enzyme, which helps certain cancer cells survive and multiply.

How should this medicine be used?

How Calquence should be used:

• Dosage: The typical starting dose of Calquence for CLL is 100 mg orally twice daily. For MCL, the typical starting dose is 100 mg orally twice daily.
• Administration: Calquence is taken orally (by mouth) with water. It can be taken with or without food.
• Duration: Treatment with Calquence is generally continued as long as it is effective and tolerated by the patient.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions: It’s important to take Calquence exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change your dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Monitoring: Your doctor will regularly monitor you for side effects and to assess how well the medication is working.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements, before starting Calquence. This helps prevent potential interactions and ensures your safety while taking the medication.

Other uses for this medicine

While Calquence is mainly indicated for CLL and MCL, there may be ongoing research or off-label uses being explored. However, as of my last update, these are the established uses for which it is approved by regulatory authorities.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Calquence:

• Cardiac Effects: Calquence can cause atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) and other cardiac issues. Before starting treatment, your doctor may perform cardiac monitoring and assess your heart function. Report any symptoms of palpitations, dizziness, or fainting promptly.
• Bleeding Risk: Calquence may increase the risk of bleeding. Inform your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking medications that affect blood clotting. Report any signs of bleeding, such as unusual bruising or bleeding gums, to your doctor.
• Infections: Since Calquence affects the immune system, it may increase susceptibility to infections. Your doctor may monitor you for signs of infection and may recommend preventive measures such as vaccinations.
• Liver Function: Calquence can affect liver function. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes is typically recommended during treatment. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease or if you experience symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Drug Interactions: Calquence may interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Calquence may cause harm to an unborn baby. It is important to use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 1 week after stopping treatment. It is not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Side Effects: Like all medications, Calquence can cause side effects. Common side effects may include headache, diarrhea, fatigue, and muscle pain. Serious side effects like severe bleeding, severe infections, and heart problems are less common but require immediate medical attention if they occur.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking Calquence. They will provide guidance on how to manage potential side effects and what precautions to take to ensure the safest and most effective use of the medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with taking Calquence. However, it’s generally recommended to maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you have any concerns about diet and Calquence, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you forget to take a dose of Calquence at the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Do not double the dose to catch up. Just take the next dose at the regular time.
• If you are unsure about what to do, or if you have missed multiple doses, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Calquence (acalabrutinib) can cause various side effects, ranging from common to more serious ones. It’s important to note that not all people will experience these side effects, and some may experience them to varying degrees of severity. Here are some potential side effects associated with Calquence:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Muscle pain
• Upper respiratory tract infection (such as cold or flu symptoms)
• Bruising
• Nausea
• Rash
• Joint pain

Less Common but Potentially Serious Side Effects:

• Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
• Bleeding events (such as bruising, nosebleeds, or gastrointestinal bleeding)
• Severe infections (due to lowered immune function)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Liver toxicity (elevated liver enzymes)
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Serious skin reactions (such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Tumor lysis syndrome (a complication of cancer treatment)

Special Considerations:

• Bleeding Risk: Calquence can increase the risk of bleeding. It’s important to report any signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or blood in your urine or stools, to your doctor.
• Infections: Since Calquence affects the immune system, it can increase susceptibility to infections. Contact your doctor if you develop symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or persistent sore throat.
• Cardiac Effects: Calquence may cause atrial fibrillation or other heart rhythm abnormalities. Inform your doctor about any symptoms of palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.
• Liver Function: Regular monitoring of liver function tests is usually recommended during treatment with Calquence. Notify your doctor if you experience symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), abdominal pain, or dark urine.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Calquence, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment regimen if necessary. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and attend scheduled check-ups to monitor for any potential complications.

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

Storage of Calquence:

• Store Calquence at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Keep the medication in its original container or packaging, away from moisture and heat.
• Do not remove the desiccant (drying agent) packet from the bottle, as it helps keep the medication dry.
• Keep Calquence out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal of Calquence:

• Dispose of any unused or expired Calquence tablets according to local regulations and guidelines.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Proper disposal helps prevent harm to the environment.
• Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information on how to safely dispose of Calquence.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose of Calquence or experience severe symptoms such as severe dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention or call your local emergency services.
• You can also contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States) for guidance on overdose management.

What other information should I know?

• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your condition and may perform blood tests to check for side effects and assess the effectiveness of Calquence.
• Medical Alerts: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (including dentists and specialists) that you are taking Calquence. This helps them make informed decisions about your treatment.
• Medication Interactions: Calquence may interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Travel: If you plan to travel, ensure you have an adequate supply of Calquence with you. Keep it in its original packaging and carry it in your carry-on luggage if you are flying.
• Patient Support: There may be patient support programs available to provide resources and assistance with Calquence treatment. Your healthcare provider or the medication manufacturer can provide information on these programs.

Following these guidelines helps ensure the safe and effective use of Calquence. Always adhere to your doctor’s instructions and report any concerns or side effects promptly.