Calquence 100mg Capsule is an anticancer medicine containing the active constituent Acalabrutinib. It belongs to a class of drugs called Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors. It is used to treat mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). MCL, CLL, and SLL are cancers of the white blood cells called lymphocytes that are part of the immune system. They differ from each other by the location where cancer occurs and the type of lymphocytes affected.

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have had recent surgery, bleeding problems, heart rhythm problems, infection, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. It is not recommended for children and adolescents less than 18 years old. This medicine can increase the risk of bleeding. Patients taking Calquence 100mg Capsule should be monitored for signs of bleeding and should avoid taking other medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood thinners.

The Calquence 100mg Capsule is used in the treatment of

• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
• Small lymphocytic lymphoma
• Mantle cell lymphoma

The therapeutic effect of Calquence 100mg Capsule is to inhibit the activity of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK). This protein is essential for the survival and growth of cancer cells in certain types of lymphomas and leukemias. By blocking BTK, it can help to slow down or even stop the growth and spread of cancer cells, which can lead to a reduction in tumor size, an improvement in symptoms, and a delay in disease progression.

Inform your healthcare provider about all your medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Calquence 100mg Capsule and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.

• Store in a refrigerator between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Keep away from moisture, heat, and light.
• It should not be frozen.
• Keep it in its original packaging until it is ready to be used.
• Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Calquence 100mg Capsule is typically taken orally, with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed, chewed, or broken. The recommended dosage can vary depending on the type of cancer being treated and other factors such as your overall health and response to treatment. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Like all medications, Calquence 100mg Capsules cause some side effects, although not everyone will experience them. 

Serious:

• Bleeding problems (bruising or bleeding)
• Infections (pneumonia and sepsis)
• High blood pressure
• Heart problems (irregular heartbeat and chest pain)
• Kidney failure

Common:

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Muscle and joint pain
• Bruising or bleeding easily
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Rash or itching

If you have been prescribed Calquence 100mg Capsule, it is important to carefully read and understand the warnings and precautions associated with the medication. Patients require monitoring for signs of an allergic reaction. It can cause high blood pressure. Patients should check their blood pressure regularly. Report to your doctor if you develop a lesion or change in the appearance of an area on the skin. It increases the risk of infection, so patients should avoid close contact with infected persons. Patients with diabetes require close monitoring during treatment. Pregnancy and breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment. Always maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support your overall health and well-being.

1. AstraZeneca, Electronica medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2020], [ Accessed on 5th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.11917.pdf

2. AstraZeneca, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on Oct 2017], [ Accessed on 5th May 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/210259s000lbl.pdf

3. John C Byrd et al; Acalabrutinib monotherapy in patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia: updated phase 2 results; Blood; Published on April 2020; [Accessed on 5th May 2023];  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31876911/