About ibrutinib
Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Used for
- Certain blood cancers, including chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and mantle cell lymphoma
- Waldenström macroglobulinaemia
- Chronic graft-versus-host disease in adults and children
Usual adult dose
Usually 420 mg once daily for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia or Waldenström macroglobulinaemia; other conditions may require different doses.
Usual dose in children
For chronic graft-versus-host disease, usually 240 mg/m² once daily, up to 420 mg; specialist-directed.
Common side effects
- Diarrhoea, nausea, or mouth sores
- Bruising or bleeding
- Infections
- High blood pressure or irregular heartbeat
Important warnings
- Can cause serious bleeding, infections, or abnormal heart rhythms.
- Blood counts and blood pressure may need monitoring.
- May harm an unborn baby; effective contraception is required during treatment and for one month afterward.
- Do not stop or change treatment without the prescriber’s direction.
Pregnancy
May cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy; use effective contraception during treatment and for one month afterward.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for one week after the final dose.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A inhibitors can raise ibrutinib levels; examples include clarithromycin and some antifungals.
- CYP3A inducers, including rifampicin and St John’s wort, can reduce effectiveness.
- Blood thinners and antiplatelet medicines can increase bleeding risk.
- Grapefruit and Seville oranges may affect ibrutinib levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.