Description

Acalabrutinib: Uses, Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects & More

Acalabrutinib is a next-generation Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor used primarily in the treatment of certain types of blood cancers. Marketed under the brand name Calquence, acalabrutinib is approved by the FDA for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).

What is Acalabrutinib?

Acalabrutinib is an oral targeted therapy that blocks the BTK protein, which plays a key role in the growth and survival of B-cells. By inhibiting BTK, acalabrutinib disrupts the cancer cell signaling, slowing the progression of the disease.

Indications: What is Acalabrutinib Used For?

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

• Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL)

• Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) – for patients who have received at least one prior therapy

Key Benefits of Acalabrutinib

• Targets cancer cells with minimal impact on healthy cells

• Fewer off-target effects compared to first-generation BTK inhibitors

• Oral administration—convenient for at-home treatment

• Shown to improve progression-free survival in CLL and SLL patients

How to Take Acalabrutinib

• Typically taken 100 mg twice daily, with or without food

• Capsules should be swallowed whole; do not crush or chew

• Consistency is key—take doses at the same times each day

Common Side Effects

While acalabrutinib is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience:

• Headache

• Diarrhea

• Fatigue

• Bruising

• Low white blood cell counts

• Infections

• Anemia

More serious side effects can include bleeding, atrial fibrillation, and secondary cancers. Always consult your doctor about potential interactions and risks.

Precautions and Interactions

• Avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges—they can interfere with how the drug is processed

• Inform your doctor of all medications, especially anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Why Choose Acalabrutinib?

With its targeted mechanism and improved tolerability, acalabrutinib offers a powerful treatment option for B-cell malignancies. It provides an effective alternative to older therapies with fewer side effects and more consistent results.