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Ibrutinib Oral Capsule (IBRUTINIB - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • prevent organ transplant rejection
  • cancer

Brand Name(s): Imbruvica

Generic Name: Ibrutinib

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Swallow with a full glass (8 oz) of water unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

Avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges (often found in marmalade) while on medicine.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If you don't remember until the next day, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses of this medicine at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 1 week after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men should use reliable birth control while taking this medicine and for at least 1 month after finishing this medicine.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • headaches
  • pain in the joints
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • back pain
  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • fainting
  • fever
  • severe or persistent headache
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • high blood pressure
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • muscle aches, spasms or abnormal movements
  • muscle weakness
  • rapid breathing
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • skin changes - a darker area with uneven edges or coloring
  • change in the size or color of a skin mole
  • sore throat
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools
  • symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.