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Ibrutinib

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Imbruvica® Cancer-related

Ibrutinib - What is it for

Ibrutinib is a targeted medicine used in the treatment of Mantle Cell Lymphoma, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia.

Ibrutinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Ibrutinib cause?

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea and/or stomach pain
  • Tiredness and lack of energy
  • Decreased appetite
  • Increased risk of bruising or bleeding
    Inform your doctor if you had a recent surgery or if any surgery is planned for you.
  • Increased risk of infections
    To minimise your risk of getting infection, avoid crowds or being near people with infection.
  • Bone pain or muscle ache
  • Mild swelling of the hands or feet

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Rapid heartbeat, chest discomfort or shortness of breath
  • Unusual light-headedness, giddiness or weakness
  • Severe muscle pain or weakness
  • Signs of infection – fever, chills, cough, sore throat, pain or difficulty when urinating
  • Unusual bruising, bleeding or black tarry stools
  • Severe diarrhea

Before taking Ibrutinib, what precautions must I follow?

  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you:
    • Have any other medical conditions e.g. heart problems, liver problems
    • Are currently taking any other medicines and supplements or intend to start new ones
  • Effective birth control measures should be used for both men and women during treatment and for up to 1 month after stopping treatment with Ibrutinib. Inform your doctor if you plan to get or suspect that you are pregnant.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Ibrutinib?

Avoid taking grapefruit and its juice while you are on this medicine.

Ibrutinib - Dosage and How to Use

How should Ibrutinib be used?

Take the exact number of capsules as instructed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole with water, once daily at approximately the same time each day.

Take with or without food.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Ibrutinib, take it as soon as you remember on the same day and return to your regular time the next day. Do not take 2 doses in the same day to make up for a missed dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.

Ibrutinib - Handling and Storage

How should I handle Ibrutinib safely?

Do not chew, open or break the capsule.

How should I store Ibrutinib?

Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#Store at room temperature;#

Updated on 28 February 2019

This article is contributed by Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Centre Singapore

    The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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