Overview
Calquence is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adults with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), a type of lymphoma (cancer that begins in the lymphatic system). Calquence may be used in combination with bendamustine and rituximab for adults with previously untreated MCL who are not eligible for autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), as well as for those with MCL who have received at least one prior therapy. Calquence is also approved for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). Calquence is also known by its drug name, acalabrutinib.

Calquence is a kinase inhibitor. It works by blocking the activity of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK), an enzyme that helps lymphoma cells grow and survive. By inhibiting BTK, Calquence slows the progression of lymphoma.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Calquence is taken by mouth as a tablet approximately every 12 hours. The tablets should be swallowed whole with water and may be taken with or without food. Those taking it should not chew, crush, dissolve, or cut the tablets. Calquence should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Calquence include upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, headache, and musculoskeletal pain (pain affecting the muscles, ligaments, and tendons). Common laboratory changes may include decreased absolute neutrophil count (a type of white blood cell), increased uric acid, decreased absolute lymphocyte count, and decreased platelets (cells that help blood clot).

Rare but serious side effects may include serious and opportunistic infections (infections that occur more easily in weakened immune systems), hemorrhage (bleeding), cytopenias (low blood cell counts), second primary malignancies (new cancers, such as skin cancers and other tumors), cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and hepatotoxicity (liver damage, including drug-induced liver injury). Patients are advised to use sun protection to reduce the risk of certain skin cancers, and liver function and blood counts should be monitored during treatment.

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Calquence (Acalabrutinib) Tablets, for Oral Use — AstraZeneca