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I'll Soon Be Starting A Pill Regimen For My CLL/SLL. What Are The Most Common Treatments And What Are The Most Common Side Effects?

A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭

I had FCR chemo in 2011. I was in complete remission until 2022. I've never been treated by taking a daily pill. I want to hear what works best for you and how you deal with side effects. Thanks!

September 26, 2024
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A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Thank you so much for your comprehensive response - I truly appreciate it!

October 3, 2024
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

I started medication 2/24 with no ill affects? I think most ill affects are from people in test groups who may be ill before treatment and they report their ill affects when taking the medication? I was also at stage 1 so I had no organ damage nor ill affects from CLL. My medication Brukinsa utilized the BTK Inhibitor which attaches to B or T cells so I did not attack healthy organs which could cause ill affects. I understand the biological and chemical interaction of BTK Inhibitors so I realize there should be no ill affects? I hope your medical people can provide information regarding the chemical and biological reaction so that you understand the benefits of the medication. In college I studied both chemistry and physics so my understanding of the medication was not an issue and I was very happy and amazed of how the medication works. I think the pharmacist could also assist? The resource section can provide some helpful information concerning medications positive effects and negative affects?

September 29, 2024
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Starting a pill regimen for CLL/SLL can be a significant change, especially after having undergone FCR chemotherapy. Here are some common oral therapies and their side effects:

Common Oral Therapies
1. Venclexta (venetoclax)
- Usage: Once-a-day pill.
- Side Effects: Anemia, neutropenia, diarrhea, nausea.
- Show Full Answer

Starting a pill regimen for CLL/SLL can be a significant change, especially after having undergone FCR chemotherapy. Here are some common oral therapies and their side effects:

Common Oral Therapies:
1. Venclexta (venetoclax)
- Usage: Once-a-day pill.
- Side Effects: Anemia, neutropenia, diarrhea, nausea.
- Serious Side Effect: Tumor lysis syndrome, which can lead to kidney failure.

2. Imbruvica (ibrutinib)
- Usage: Available as a once-a-day tablet or capsules taken three times a day.
- Side Effects: Mild diarrhea, anemia, neutropenia, nausea, constipation, fatigue, achiness, rash.

3. Calquence (acalabrutinib)
- Usage: Taken in capsule form twice a day.
- Side Effects: Headache, diarrhea, muscle and joint pain, infection, hemorrhage, irregular heartbeat.

4. Copiktra (duvelisib)
- Usage: Taken in pill form twice a day.
- Side Effects: Similar to Zydelig, including liver problems, breathing problems, and infections.

Managing Side Effects:
- Stay Hydrated: Helps manage nausea and prevent kidney issues.
- Regular Monitoring: Frequent blood tests to monitor for anemia and neutropenia.
- Diet Adjustments: Eating small, frequent meals can help with nausea and diarrhea.
- Rest and Exercise: Balance rest with light exercise to combat fatigue and maintain muscle strength.

Personalized Treatment:
- Genetic Mutations: If you have del(17p) or TP53 mutations, oral targeted therapies might be more effective than traditional chemotherapy.

Discussion with Your Doctor:
- Shared Decision-Making: Discuss your goals and treatment options with your doctor to find the best plan for you.

It's important to stay in close contact with your healthcare provider to manage any side effects and adjust treatment as needed.

September 26, 2024

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