We all know that fighting cancer is not easy. Your doctor will prescribe various medications to help you through this difficult journey. Zanubrutinib is a specific drug that is used to treat cancer conditions like leukemia and lymphoma. It is commonly known by the brand name BRUKINSA. So, today we will talk about this drug, how it works, and the things you need to be aware of in a simple, understandable way.
How does this Zanubrutinib drug work?
Simply put, it turns off a specific protein that helps cancer cells grow and spread. Think of it like blocking someone from doing something bad. When this protein is blocked, the ability of cancer cells to grow, multiply, and spread throughout the body is greatly reduced, sometimes completely eliminated. It's like cutting off the "power" that cancer cells get.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
It is very important to inform your doctor about these matters for your safety and the success of your treatment.
| Information you need to provide | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you have a bleeding disorder | This medication may increase the risk of bleeding, so it is essential that your doctor is aware of this. |
| If you have recently had surgery or are scheduled to have it in the future | This medication may need to be temporarily stopped before and after surgery. |
| Heart disease, high blood pressure, or irregular heartbeat | Because this medication can sometimes affect heart function, your doctor should be aware of your heart health. |
| If there is any infection in the body | It is important to treat any existing infections before starting medication. |
| If you have liver disease | The dosage of the medication may need to be adjusted depending on liver function. |
| If you are taking blood thinners | The risk of bleeding can be greatly increased when these two medications are taken together. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | This medicine can harm the baby in the womb, so it is extremely important to talk about this. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
- This comes in the form of a capsule. Swallow it whole with a glass of water, as directed by your doctor, at the prescribed time.
- The most important thing is, do not break, chew, or crush the capsule. It should be swallowed whole.
- You can take this before or after a meal, but if you feel an upset stomach, it is best to take it with a meal.
- Another very important thing is to completely avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication. Grapefruit juice can affect the way this medication works in the body.
- Your doctor will determine or change the dosage based on your condition. Do not stop taking the medication or change the dosage on your own.
If you suddenly think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, do not delay. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Sometimes we forget to take our medicine. If that happens, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
It's a good idea to be a little careful about these things for your safety while taking this medication.
- Bleeding risk: This medicine may make it take longer for your body to stop bleeding, even if you have a small cut. You may also just get bruises. Tell your doctor if you notice any unusual bleeding (e.g. nosebleeds, bleeding gums).
- Risk of infection: This medicine may slightly reduce your body's immunity. Therefore, the chances of developing infections are higher. If you experience symptoms such as fever, cold, sore throat, or cough, do not self-medicate and talk to your doctor. It is wise to avoid crowded places and people with illnesses during this time.
- Surgery and dental treatment: If you are going to have surgery, or if you are going to have a tooth extracted, you should definitely tell the doctor that you are taking Zanubrutinib.
- Sun protection: This medicine may slightly increase your risk of developing some types of skin cancer. Therefore, wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible when going out in the sun and use a good sunscreen.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: This is very important. Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for at least one week after stopping it. Also, do not breastfeed your baby while taking this medicine and for two weeks after stopping it. Talk to your doctor about this for further advice.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. Not everyone will experience them. But it's important to be aware of these symptoms.
| Side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Things to tell your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Unusual bleeding | Black or bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, red/dark brown urine, and small red/purple spots on the skin. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast, dizziness, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, non-healing wounds, urinary tract infection. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark yellow/brown urine. |
| Low red blood cells | Feeling unusually tired, dizzy, headache, difficulty breathing. |
| If it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Common side effects | Bone, joint or muscle pain, fatigue, and superficial skin lesions. |
Take-Home Message
- Zanubrutinib is a targeted therapy for cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.
- Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has instructed, in the prescribed dose and at the correct time.
- Do not take this medicine with grapefruit juice for any reason.
- If you notice any unusual bleeding, fever, or other signs of infection, notify your doctor immediately.
- It is very important to inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and even traditional medicines you are taking.
- If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, be sure to consult your doctor before starting this medication.
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