Zanubrutinib (By mouth)

Zanubrutinib (zan-ue-BROO-ti-nib)

Treats mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), WaldenstrÖm macroglobulinemia (WM), marginal zone lymphoma (MZL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and follicular lymphoma (FL).

Brand Name(s):

Brukinsa

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to zanubrutinib, or if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
  • Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not open, crush, break, or chew it.
  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some foods and medicines can affect how zanubrutinib works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
    • Clarithromycin, digoxin, diltiazem, efavirenz, erythromycin, fluconazole, itraconazole, midazolam, omeprazole, rifampin
    • Blood thinner or antiplatelet medicine

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. If you can get pregnant, your doctor may do tests to make sure you are not pregnant before starting treatment. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment with this medicine and for at least 1 week after the last dose. Male patients with female partners should use an effective form of birth control during treatment and for at least 1 week after the last dose.
  • Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose.
  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, bleeding problems, heart rhythm problems, high blood pressure, or any infection (including hepatitis B, herpes simplex, pneumonia). Tell your doctor if you have had a recent surgery or plan to have surgery.
  • This medicine may cause the following problems:
    • Increased risk of bleeding, which may be life-threatening
    • Increased risk of infection
    • Increased risk for new cancers (including skin cancer)
    • Heart rhythm problems
    • Liver problems
  • Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
  • This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. You may need to stop using this medicine several days before you have surgery or medical tests.
  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Bloody stools or urine, severe headache, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Change in how much or how often you urinate, painful or difficult urination, bloody urine
  • Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
  • Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat, trouble breathing, lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
  • Fever, chills, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, body aches
  • Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Diarrhea, constipation
  • Joint, back, or muscle pain
  • Skin rash

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024

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