Acalabrutinib

Information about Acalabrutinib

Acalabrutinib uses

Acalabrutinib is used in the treatment of blood cancer.

How acalabrutinib works

Acalabrutinib works by blocking the action of an abnormal protein that promotes the multiplication of cancer cells. This helps stop the spread of cancer cells.

Common side effects of acalabrutinib

Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Upper respiratory tract infection, Low blood platelets, Headache, Diarrhea, Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain

Available Medicine for Acalabrutinib

  • ₹181765
    AstraZeneca
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹30995
    Zydus Healthcare Limited
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹13100
    Hetero Healthcare Limited
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹15700 to ₹28129
    MSN Laboratories
    2 variant(s)

Expert advice for Acalabrutinib

  • Before taking Acalabrutinib, tell your doctor about other medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbal remedies, etc.).
  • Avoid the use of antacids within 2 hours of taking this medicine.
  • You may be at risk of infection, so try to avoid crowds or people with colds, and immediately report fever or any other signs of infection to your doctor.
  • Avoid sun exposure. Wear SPF 15 (or higher) sunblock and protective clothing.
  • Drink plenty of water every 24 hours after the start of the treatment.
  • Eat foods that may help reduce diarrhea and take adequate rest.
  • Avoid contact sports or other situations where you may bruise or get injured since this medicine increases the risk of bleeding. Also, tell your doctor about any planned surgeries or dental procedures while taking Acalabrutinib.

Frequently asked questions for Acalabrutinib

Acalabrutinib

Q. I am experiencing nausea and extreme tiredness. Is this due to Acalabrutinib?
Nausea and fatigue or tiredness are some of the common side effects of Acalabrutinib. Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce the feeling of nausea. Avoid salty, spicy, fried, or fatty food items. Take plenty of rest and do light exercise daily to keep yourself active and reduce fatigue.
Q. How to get relief from diarrhea while on treatment with Acalabrutinib?
Food items with soluble fiber can help relieve diarrhea as they help absorb excess fluid from the body. These food items include bananas (ripe), oranges, boiled potatoes, white rice, curd, and oatmeal. Diarrhea can cause dehydration in the body, so drink 8-10 glasses of water to avoid dehydration. You can also have soup and juice frequently to hydrate yourself.
Q. Should I avoid any food and drinks while taking Acalabrutinib?
You can continue with your normal diet unless your doctor tells you otherwise. However, it is advisable to sip water regularly to prevent dehydration, eat small, simple but nourishing snacks every few hours rather than large meals, and suck on hard candy or popsicles to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Show More
Q. I have noticed some changes in my skin after taking Acalabrutinib? What should I do?
Use a moisturizer to get relief from rashes and dry and itchy skin. Avoid direct sunlight, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen (SPF of more than 15) whenever you step outdoors. Do not go swimming if you have a rash because the chlorine in the water can make it worse. Avoid hot water baths and wear loose and cotton fabric clothes. Your skin will tend to become better once treatment is stopped.
Q. Why am I experiencing bleeding from my gums after brushing my teeth?
You may experience bleeding from gums due to a drop in the number of platelets (blood cells) in your blood. These blood cells help the blood clot when we bruise ourselves.
Q. How to cope with tiredness and weakness after starting the treatment with Acalabrutinib?
Various things can help you to reduce tiredness and cope with it, for example, gentle exercise. However, always consult your doctor before doing any kind of exercise. Q. Can Acalabrutinib be taken with obinutuzumab?
Q. What are some of the tests conducted before and during the treatment with Acalabrutinib?
Your doctor will prescribe blood tests to check your levels of blood cells and how well your liver and kidneys are working.

Content on this page was last updated on 19 May, 2023, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)