WARNING

Serious or even fatal infections could result from using duvelisib. Inform your physician if you are ill, or if you have previously had cytomegalovirus (CMV), a virus that can cause symptoms in people with weakened immune systems. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms: fever, chills, sore throat, shortness of breath, or other infection-related symptoms.

Colitis, or big intestine enlargement, can be brought on by duvelisib. Inform your physician about any stomach or intestinal disorders you may have had in the past, such as colitis, or if you now have diarrhea. Give your doctor a call right away if you encounter any of the following symptoms: an increase in the frequency of your daily bowel motions, blood in your stool, or any pain or cramping in your stomach.

Duvelisib may result in severe or perhaps fatal skin reactions. Give your doctor a call right away if you encounter any of the following symptoms: Rash that is either new or becoming worse, itchy, blistering, or peeling skin, or painful sores or ulcers on your lips, skin, or inside your mouth.

Duvelisib may result in severe or potentially fatal pneumonitis (lung edema). If you have breathing issues or lung illness, let your doctor know. Give your doctor a call right away if you encounter any of the following symptoms: breathing difficulties, wheezing, shortness of breath, or a new or worsening cough.

Remember to keep all of your doctor’s and the laboratory’s appointments. To monitor how your body is reacting to duvelisib, your doctor may prescribe specific tests.

When you start taking duvelisib for the first time and every time you refill your prescription, you will get the manufacturer’s patient information sheet (Medication Guide) from your doctor or pharmacist. If you have any questions, make sure to approach your pharmacist or doctor after thoroughly reading the material.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Duvelisib is used to treat cancer that has returned or is not responding to at least two previous therapies, such as small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), which starts predominantly in the lymph nodes, or chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a disease that starts in the white blood cells. Duvelisib is a member of the kinase inhibitor drug class. By obstructing the impulses that lead to the growth of cancer cells, it functions. This inhibits the cancer cells’ ability to spread.

How should this medicine be used?

Duvelisib is available as an oral capsule. Typically, it is taken twice a day, either with or without meals. Take duvelisib daily at approximately the same times. Pay close attention to the instructions on the label of your prescription and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain anything you do not understand. Administer duvelisib as prescribed. Never take more or less of it, or take it more frequently than your doctor has instructed.

Do not open, chew, or break the capsules; instead, swallow them whole.

If you suffer major adverse effects during your treatment, your doctor may reduce your dose of duvelisib or advise you to stop taking the medication temporarily or permanently. This is dependent on how effectively the drug functions for you as well as any adverse effects you may encounter. Discuss your feelings with your doctor regarding your treatment. Take duvelisib as prescribed even if you feel OK. Duvelisib should not be stopped without first consulting your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information if you think this medicine could be recommended for something else.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Duvelisib, it’s essential to follow certain precautions:

• If you have an allergy to duvelisib, any other drug, or any of the ingredients in duvelisib capsules, let your doctor and pharmacist know. For an ingredient list, consult the Medication Guide or ask your pharmacist.
• Inform your physician and pharmacist about all the vitamins, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, and prescription and over-the-counter drugs you now take or intend to use while taking duvelisib. Your doctor might need to carefully monitor you for any negative effects or adjust the dosages of your medications.
• Duvelisib may interact with the nonprescription or natural products listed below: John’s wort. Before beginning to take duvelisib, make sure to inform your doctor and pharmacist that you are taking these medications. When taking duvelisib, do not begin taking any of these medications without first talking to your doctor.
• If you have liver disease or have ever had it, let your doctor know.
• Inform your physician if you intend to get pregnant or are already pregnant. Before starting duvelisib, a pregnancy test is required. Pregnancy shouldn’t occur while you are using duvelisib. If you’re a woman, you should use birth control to avoid getting pregnant while taking duvelisib and for at least a month following the last dose. Use reliable birth control during your treatment and for one month following your last dose if you’re a man and your partner has the potential to become pregnant. Call your doctor right away if you or your partner become pregnant while taking duvelisib. The fetus may suffer from duvelisib.
• Inform your physician if you are nursing a child. Breastfeeding should not be done while using duvelisib or for at least a month following your last dosage.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you have about using duvelisib safely and effectively.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Maintain your regular diet unless advised otherwise by your physician.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missing dose of duvelisib as soon as you remember it and then take the next dose at the appointed time if you miss a dose by less than six hours. On the other hand, skip the missed dose and stick to your usual dosing plan if you miss a dose by longer than six hours. Never take two doses to make up for something you forgot to take.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Duvelisib, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of duvelisib may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Muscle or join pain

In some cases, duvelisib can also cause more serious side effects, such as:

• Yellow eyes or skin; abdominal pain; unexplained bruising or bleeding; loss of appetite; yellow or brown-colored urine; pale stools; or pain in the upper right part of the stomach

There could be other negative effects from duvelisib. If you have any odd side effects while taking this medicine, contact your doctor.

It’s important to discuss any concerns about side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determine if duvelisib is the right medication for you based on your individual medical history and needs.

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

Store this medication tightly closed, out of the reach of children, and in the original container. Keep it out of the bathroom, away from excessive heat, and at room temperature.

As many prescription containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and small children can readily open them, it is crucial to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children. Always lock the safety caps on medications to prevent poisoning in small children. Then, put the drug in a secure spot that is up high and out of their reach.

It is important to dispose of prescription drugs in a specific manner so that kids, dogs, and other people cannot ingest them. But this drug is not something you should flush down the toilet. The best way to get rid of your medication is to use a service called medicine take-back. To find out more about take-back initiatives in your area, speak with your pharmacist or get in touch with the recycling and trash department.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Assistance: If you suspect an overdose of duvelisib or experience severe symptoms such as collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can’t be awakened, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: You can also contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do in case of an overdose.

What other information should I know?

Don’t give your medication to anyone else. If you have any questions concerning filling your prescription, ask the pharmacist.

It is crucial that you maintain a written record of every medication you take, including over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs, as well as any dietary supplements, vitamins, and minerals. This list should accompany you to all doctor appointments and hospital admissions. Additionally, having this information on hand is crucial in case of an emergency.