Calquence (Acalabrutinib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Calquence Used For?
Calquence is a medication that contains acalabrutinib, primarily used to treat certain types of blood cancers.
Primary Uses
It is used for treating Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL)/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL).
How It Works
Calquence works by blocking a protein called BTK, which helps cancer cells grow, thereby reducing the number of cancer cells and slowing their spread.
Good to know: Calquence is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Calquence
Calquence should be taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dose is one 100 mg capsule taken twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart. Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not chew or open it.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose by less than 3 hours, take it right away. If it's been more than 3 hours, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Infection (fever, chills)
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Rash
- Bruising
- Bleeding (including nosebleeds)
- Fatigue
- Muscle and bone pain
- Joint pain
- New cancers (including skin cancer)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Signs of serious bleeding (blood in stools or urine)
- Signs of infection (fever, chills, body aches)
- Signs of heart problems (chest discomfort, shortness of breath)
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before using Calquence.
Who Should Not Take Calquence
Do not use Calquence if you are allergic to acalabrutinib or any of its ingredients, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have any bleeding disorders, infections, liver problems, heart rhythm issues, or if you are taking other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Calquence may harm an unborn baby, so it should not be taken during pregnancy. Additionally, do not breastfeed while taking Calquence and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Calquence and affect its efficacy.
- Amiodarone
- Diltiazem
- Verapamil
- Clarithromycin
- Erythromycin
- Telithromycin
- Ciprofloxacin
- Rifampin
- Fluconazole
- Posaconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Itraconazole
- Voriconazole
- Ritonavir
- Cobicistat
- Indinavir
- Nelfinavir
- Saquinavir
- Amprenavir
- Atazanavir
- Darunavir/ritonavir
- Telaprevir
- Carbamazepine
- Phenytoin
- St. John’s wort
- Antacids
- Ranitidine
- Famotidine
- Omeprazole
- Esomeprazole
- Methotrexate
- Metformin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Calquence.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol use while taking Calquence.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Calquence affects you, as it may cause dizziness or fatigue.
Storage
Store Calquence capsules in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Keep them away from moisture, heat, and sunlight, and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting your doctor or going to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Calquence to work can vary by individual. Consult your doctor for specific expectations.
You can take Calquence with or without food.
No, Calquence is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Calquence without consulting your doctor, as it may affect your treatment.
Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while on Calquence.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Calquence.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor for personalized advice regarding Calquence.
If you miss a dose by less than 3 hours, take it right away. If more than 3 hours, skip the missed dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.