idelalisib
Lymphoid Leukemia, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
NA
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Idelalisib is used to treat certain blood cancers, like chronic lymphocytic leukemia and follicular lymphoma, which are types of cancer affecting the blood and lymphatic system. It helps slow the progression of these diseases by blocking a protein that cancer cells need to grow.
Idelalisib works by blocking a protein called PI3K, which helps cancer cells grow and survive. By turning off this protein, idelalisib slows the growth of cancer cells and helps control the disease, making it effective for treating certain blood cancers.
Idelalisib is usually taken as a tablet by mouth twice daily, which means two times a day. You can take it with or without food, but do not crush or chew the tablets. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your health needs.
Common side effects of idelalisib include diarrhea, which is frequent loose or watery stools, fatigue, which is a feeling of tiredness, and nausea, which is the feeling of wanting to vomit. These effects vary from person to person and should be discussed with your doctor.
Idelalisib can increase the risk of serious infections, liver problems, and intestinal perforations, which are holes in the intestine. If you experience symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin, seek medical help immediately. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor your liver function.
Indications and Purpose
How does idelalisib work?
Idelalisib works by blocking a protein called PI3K, which helps cancer cells grow and survive. Think of it like turning off a switch that powers cancer cells. By blocking this protein, idelalisib slows the growth of cancer cells and helps control the disease. This action makes it effective for treating certain blood cancers.
Is idelalisib effective?
Idelalisib is effective for treating certain types of blood cancers, like chronic lymphocytic leukemia and follicular lymphoma. It works by blocking a protein that helps cancer cells grow. Clinical studies show idelalisib can slow disease progression and improve survival rates. Your doctor will monitor your response to the medication through regular check-ups and tests.
What is idelalisib?
Idelalisib is a medication used to treat certain blood cancers, like chronic lymphocytic leukemia and follicular lymphoma. It belongs to a class of drugs called PI3K inhibitors, which block a protein that helps cancer cells grow. By doing this, idelalisib slows the progression of the disease and helps manage symptoms.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take idelalisib?
Idelalisib is usually a long-term medication for managing certain blood cancers. You'll typically take it as long as it continues to work and you can tolerate it. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your idelalisib treatment.
How do I dispose of idelalisib?
Bring unused idelalisib to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, mix the medication with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take idelalisib?
Idelalisib is usually taken as a tablet by mouth twice daily. You can take it with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take for idelalisib to start working?
Idelalisib starts working in your body shortly after you take it, but noticeable effects may take weeks. The time it takes to see full benefits can vary based on your condition and overall health. Regular check-ups with your doctor help monitor your response to the medication and guide any necessary adjustments.
How should I store idelalisib?
Store idelalisib at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms. If your pills came in packaging that isn't child-resistant, transfer them to a container that children can't easily open. Always store idelalisib out of children's reach.
What is the usual dose of idelalisib?
The usual starting dose of idelalisib for adults is 150 mg taken twice daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and any side effects. There are no specific dose adjustments for children or the elderly, but your doctor will monitor your condition closely. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can idelalisib be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Idelalisib is not recommended while breastfeeding. There's limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk, but it may pose risks to a nursing baby. If you're taking idelalisib and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can idelalisib be taken safely while pregnant?
Idelalisib is not recommended during pregnancy. There's limited information on its safety for pregnant women, but it may harm an unborn baby. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest treatment options. Your doctor can help create a plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can I take idelalisib with other prescription drugs?
Idelalisib can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects. Strong CYP3A inhibitors, like certain antifungals and antibiotics, can increase idelalisib levels in your blood. This may lead to more side effects. Always tell your doctor about all medications you take to manage interactions safely.
Does idelalisib have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of idelalisib include diarrhea, fever, and fatigue. Serious side effects can include liver problems and infections. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider can help manage these effects.
Does idelalisib have any safety warnings?
Idelalisib has important safety warnings. It can increase the risk of serious infections, liver problems, and intestinal perforations, which are holes in the intestine. If you experience symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin, seek medical help immediately. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor your liver function. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any new symptoms.
Is idelalisib addictive?
Idelalisib is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. It works by affecting cancer cells, not brain chemistry, so it doesn't lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed.
Is idelalisib safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more vulnerable to side effects of idelalisib, such as infections and liver problems. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is important. The benefits and risks should be carefully weighed, and dose adjustments may be necessary. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any new symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking idelalisib?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking idelalisib. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems, which are a potential side effect of idelalisib. Drinking alcohol may also worsen other side effects like dizziness or nausea. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking idelalisib to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking idelalisib?
You can exercise while taking idelalisib, but be cautious. This medication can cause fatigue and dizziness, which might affect your exercise capacity. To exercise safely, listen to your body and rest if you feel tired or dizzy. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities if you experience any side effects. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop idelalisib?
Stopping idelalisib suddenly can cause your condition to worsen. It's used for long-term treatment of certain cancers, and stopping it without medical advice can lead to disease progression. Always talk with your doctor before stopping idelalisib. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control.
What are the most common side effects of idelalisib?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of idelalisib include diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting idelalisib, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking idelalisib?
Don't take idelalisib if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. It's not recommended for people with severe liver problems. Caution is needed if you have a history of intestinal perforation, which is a hole in the intestine. Always consult your doctor about these concerns and follow their advice.
