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

Ibrutinib - What is it for

Ibrutinib is a targeted medication used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia and mantle cell lymphoma.

Ibrutinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Ibrutinib cause?

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea and/or stomach pain
  • Decreased appetite
  • Tiredness and lack of energy
  • Bone pain or muscle ache
  • Mild swelling of the hands or feet
  • Skin rash
  • 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 risk, avoid crowds or being near people with infection.

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Rapid heartbeat, chest discomfort or shortness of breath
  • Unusual light-headedness, giddiness or weakness
  • Signs of infection – fever of of 38°C or higher, chills, cough, sore throat, pain or difficulty urinating
  • Unusual bruising, bleeding or black sticky stools
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Severe muscle pain or weakness

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 taking any other medication or supplements e.g. warfarin, fish oil or vitamin E.
  • Use effective birth control during treatment and for 3 months after stopping Ibrutinib. Inform your doctor if you or your partner plan for or suspect pregnancy.

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

Avoid taking grapefruit and its juice while you are on Ibrutinib.

Ibrutinib - Dosage and How to Use

How should Ibrutinib be used?

 It is a capsule, taken by mouth once daily and swallowed whole with water. Take at around the same time each day, with or without food. Take the exact number of capsules instructed by your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Ibrutinib, take it as soon as you can on the same day and return to your usual dosing time the next day. Do not double dose to make up for a missed dose.  

What should I do if I overdose?

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

Ibrutinib - Handling

How should I handle Ibrutinib safely?

Do not chew, open or break the capsule.

Ibrutinib - Storage

How should I store Ibrutinib ?

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

How should I dispose of Ibrutinib safely?

Ibrutinib - Additional Information

  • Updated on 2/28/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Article 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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