Calquence is manufactured by AstraZeneca [1].
What is Calquence used for?
Calquence (acalabrutinib) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of blood cancers, specifically mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) [2]. It is a type of targeted therapy known as a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor [3].
How does acalabrutinib work?
Acalabrutinib works by blocking the action of a protein called Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) [3]. BTK is important for the growth and survival of certain white blood cells, including cancerous B-cells [3]. By inhibiting BTK, acalabrutinib helps to slow or stop the growth of these cancer cells [3].
When did Calquence receive FDA approval?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Calquence for the treatment of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) in October 2019 and for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) in November 2019 [4].
What is the patent status of Calquence?
Information regarding the specific patent expiry dates for Calquence can be found on DrugPatentWatch.com [5]. Patent protection for drugs like Calquence is crucial for pharmaceutical companies as it grants them market exclusivity for a period, allowing them to recoup research and development costs.
What are the potential side effects of Calquence?
Common side effects associated with Calquence can include diarrhea, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, bruising, and low blood cell counts [2]. More serious side effects can occur, and patients should discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider [2].
How does Calquence compare to other CLL/MCL treatments?
Calquence is one of several BTK inhibitors available for treating CLL and MCL [6]. Other BTK inhibitors include ibrutinib and zanubrutinib [6]. Comparisons between these medications often focus on efficacy, safety profiles, and patient tolerance [6]. The choice of treatment depends on individual patient factors and physician recommendations.
Can generic versions of Calquence be made?
The availability of generic versions of Calquence is contingent upon the expiration of its patents [5]. Until patent protection expires and regulatory approvals are granted, only AstraZeneca can market and sell Calquence [5].
Who are AstraZeneca's competitors in the BTK inhibitor market?
AstraZeneca faces competition in the BTK inhibitor market from other pharmaceutical companies developing and marketing similar drugs for CLL and MCL. These include companies producing ibrutinib and zanubrutinib, among others [6].
What clinical data supports Calquence's use?
Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Calquence in treating both MCL and CLL [4]. These studies evaluated its effectiveness in achieving remission and prolonging progression-free survival for patients with these conditions [4].
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Sources:
[1] https://www.astrazeneca.com/
[2] https://www.calquence.com/
[3] https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-drug-terms/def/acalabrutinib
[4] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-trial-snapshop-calquence
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[6] https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032530