See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Calquence
Calquence is the brand name for the drug acalabrutinib, used to treat certain types of lymphoma [1].
What is Calquence used for?
Calquence is prescribed for adults with specific forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), including mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) [1].
How does Calquence work?
Acalabrutinib is a targeted therapy that works by inhibiting a protein called Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) [1]. BTK plays a role in the growth and survival of certain white blood cells, including malignant B cells found in MCL and CLL/SLL [2]. By blocking BTK, Calquence helps to reduce the number of these cancer cells [1].
When was Calquence approved?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved Calquence for MCL in October 2017 [3]. It received approval for CLL/SLL in November 2019 [4].
What are the common side effects of Calquence?
Common side effects associated with Calquence treatment can include decreased platelet count, decreased neutrophil count, anemia, diarrhea, fatigue, muscle pain, and rash [1].
What is the patent status for Calquence?
Information regarding the patent status and expected expiry dates for Calquence can be found on DrugPatentWatch.com [5]. Companies actively monitor and sometimes challenge drug patents to prepare for the potential market entry of generic or biosimilar versions.
Who manufactures Calquence?
Calquence is manufactured by AstraZeneca [1].
How does Calquence compare to other CLL/SLL treatments?
Calquence is one of several targeted therapies available for CLL/SLL. Other treatments may include other BTK inhibitors, BCL-2 inhibitors, or chemotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the specific subtype of lymphoma, patient health, and previous treatments [2].
What clinical trials have been conducted for Calquence?
Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Calquence in treating MCL and CLL/SLL. For example, studies have shown its effectiveness in both treatment-naive and relapsed/refractory patient populations [1][2].
What are the risks associated with Calquence?
Beyond common side effects, potential serious risks associated with Calquence include an increased risk of infections, bleeding events, cardiovascular events like atrial fibrillation, and secondary cancers [1]. Patients should discuss all potential risks with their healthcare provider.
Can I get Calquence without a prescription?
No, Calquence is a prescription medication and requires a doctor's order [1].
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**Sources:
[1] https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/acalabrutinib
[2] https://www.lls.org/treatment/types-treatment/targeted-therapy/acalabrutinib
[3] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-approvals-october-2017
[4] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-approvals-november-2019
[5] https://drugpatentwatch.com/