This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

The U.S. FDA approved Ibrutinib as the first Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor (BTK) to treat several types of blood cancers on  13th November 2013.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Ibrutinib Capsule is a biological agent that acts as targeted drug therapy in cancer treatment. It is classified as a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor belonging to the class of kinase inhibitors. Bruton tyrosine kinase is a protein that acts as a driving force for chronic lymphocytic leukemia and other B cell cancers. Ibrutinib acts against the enzymatic activity of BTK, further inhibiting its signaling. Thus, the number of cancer cells reduces and results in a delay in disease progression. 

Uses of undefined

Ibrutinib Capsule has been developed to treat several types of blood cancers, such as Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), Mantle cell lymphoma, Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia, small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) and chronic graft versus host disease. 

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

The recommended dose of Ibrutinib is one capsule a day. Ibrutinib is available as a 140mg capsule. Swallow the entire capsule with water and do not open, dissolve or chew them. Take the capsule at the same time each day with food or between meals. Your physician will choose the dosage and administration frequency based on your medical condition because it differs for each person.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience bleeding, infection, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort. During the Ibrutinib Capsule treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have had a history of heart failure or hepatitis infection. It is not recommended to take this medicine before or after surgery as it causes a delay in wound healing. Get immediate medical attention if you have any breathing difficulties or bleeding problems. 

Precautions

Talk to your physician if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby as Ibrutinib has the potential to harm an unborn baby. Discuss effective contraceptive options with your healthcare provider and use them during treatment and for a month after the last dose of Ibrutinib. Avoid breastfeeding during and a week after finishing this treatment course. It is not known if Ibrutinib passes into breast milk.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Ibrutinib Capsule are diarrhoea, tiredness, rash, bruising, muscle pain, bone pain, anaemia, fever, mouth sores, headache, stomach pain, pneumonia, etc. If you experience fast heart rate, missed heartbeats, dizziness, chest discomfort, or breathlessness, report to your doctor immediately.

Word Of Advice

If you feel weak, dizzy or tired, you should avoid driving or handling machines. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinning medications as Ibrutinib Capsule increases your chances of bleeding. Use sun protection and visit your dermatologist regularly to minimize the risk of secondary skin cancer. Drink plenty of water during this treatment to prevent dehydration.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Janssen-Cilag International Ltd, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2021] [Accessed on 18th March 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.10040.pdf
  2. Janssen Biotech, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on May 2022] [ 18th March 2023], https://www.imbruvica.com/files/prescribing-information.pdf
  3. H.G. Watson, J.I.O. Craig, L.M. Manson, Blood disease, Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 22nd Edition, 2014, 989-1056.
  4. Sapna Parmar, Khilna Patel, Javier Pinilla-Ibarz, Ibrutinib (Imbruvica): A Novel Targeted Therapy for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, Drug Forecast, Published on July 2014; Accessed on  18th March 2023]; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103574/pdf/ptj3907483.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.