When you or someone in your family is diagnosed with cancer, your doctor may prescribe a variety of medications. Some of them are a bit complicated and unfamiliar. So, it's normal to feel a little scared and curious about a medication that you've been prescribed. Today, we're going to talk about one such specific anti-cancer drug, Umbralisib. Let's talk simply and politely about what this drug is, what it does, and what you need to be careful about when using it.
What kind of medicine is this Umbralisib?
Simply put, Umbralisib is a targeted therapy that targets cancer cells, stopping them from growing by targeting certain proteins inside cancer cells that help them grow, without affecting healthy cells in the body. It's like hitting the enemy right where they are.
This medication is commonly available under the brand name UKONIQ. It is used to treat conditions such as marginal zone lymphoma and follicular lymphoma, a type of lymphoma. However, it can also be used to treat other types of cancer, so it is best to ask your doctor why you have been prescribed this medication.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before starting treatment with Umbralisib, it is very important to tell your doctor about your complete medical history. This medicine may interact with certain medical conditions. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Situation to be reported | Description |
|---|---|
| Current infections | If you currently have any infectious condition such as fever, cough, or cold. |
| Liver diseases | If you have had or currently have liver disease. |
| Digestive system problems | If you have problems such as intestinal inflammation. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to Umbralisib, aspirin, other medicines, foods, or food coloring (especially FD&C Yellow No. 5 - tartrazine). |
| Pregnancy or planning | If you are currently pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or have any doubts. |
| Breastfeeding | If you are a breastfeeding mother. |
How to use the medicine correctly?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it as directed.
- This is an oral tablet. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Try to take it at the same time every day . Once you make this a habit, you won't forget.
- Take the pill with a meal . Do not take it on an empty stomach.
- Most importantly: Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole with a glass of water.
- Continue taking this treatment until your doctor tells you to stop.
- The pharmacy may give you a special instruction leaflet (MedGuide) when you are given this medicine. Always read it carefully.
What do you do if you accidentally take too much medicine?
If you have even the slightest suspicion that you have taken more medicine than you think, do not ignore it. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Missing a dose of medication is something that can happen to anyone. If that happens, don't worry.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
- However, if it is less than 12 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose. Just take your next dose at the usual time.
- Never take a double dose.
Special considerations when taking this medicine
It is very important to think about your safety and well-being during treatment.
Interactions with other drugs
There is no complete list of other medications that may interact with this medicine. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements). Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Regular medical check-up
Your doctor will check you regularly to see how your treatment is progressing. He or she will also order blood work to check for any internal changes in your body caused by this medication. Don't skip these tests.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility
You should be especially careful about this matter.
Special awareness about pregnancy and breastfeeding!
* Women: Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping treatment. If you are planning to become pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.
* Men: Avoid fathering a child while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping treatment.
* Breastfeeding: Do not breastfeed your baby while taking the medicine and for 1 month after stopping.
This medicine can cause serious harm to the unborn baby, so it is extremely important to follow these instructions.
Also, this medication may have some effect on fertility. If you have any concerns about this, talk openly with your doctor.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medicines, Umbralisib can cause some side effects, although not everybody gets them. It is important to be aware of the symptoms below.
| Possible side effects of Umbralisib | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, pain in the upper right side of the stomach, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, pain when urinating. |
| Diarrhea | Severe or persistent diarrhea. |
| Skin problems | Skin redness, blistering, peeling (even inside the mouth). |
| Severe stomach pain | Sudden severe stomach pain. |
| If it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| General pains | Pain in bones or muscles. |
| Other common features | Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and more fatigue than usual. |
This list does not include all side effects. If you notice anything else that is different or unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Umbralisib is a targeted therapy that stops the growth of cancer cells.
- Take the medicine at the same time every day with food. Swallow the tablet whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, any allergies you have, and if you are pregnant.
- Avoid pregnancy, childbearing, and breastfeeding while taking the medication and for 1 month after stopping.
- If you experience any serious side effects such as skin blisters, dark urine, yellowing of the eyes, or fever, notify your doctor immediately.
- If you overdose, do not panic and immediately go to the National Poisons Information Center or the nearest hospital ETU.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have. You are not alone in this journey.
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