Written by:
Dr. Sophie Reynolds

Dr. Sophie Reynolds is a board-certified medical doctor specializing in internal medicine. With over a decade of experience in patient care and medical writing

Calquence 100 mg Capsule

Brand Name:   Calquence
Molecule:   Acalabrutinib
Strength:   100 mg
Quantity:   60 Capsules
Form:   Capsule
Packaging Type:   Strips
Manufacturer/Marketed By:   Astrazeneca
Country of Origin:   USA

Description

Calquence 100 mg Capsule contains acalabrutinib, a targeted anticancer medicine classified as a Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor. It is used in the treatment of certain B-cell blood cancers, particularly those affecting lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell involved in the immune system. By blocking specific signaling pathways involved in cancer cell survival and growth, acalabrutinib may help slow the progression of these conditions when used as prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. Calquence is commonly prescribed for adults with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). It may be used alone or in combination with other cancer medicines depending on the treatment plan recommended by an oncologist. This medicine is taken orally and is usually part of a long-term oncology treatment plan that requires regul

Benefits

  • Targets BTK signaling, a key pathway involved in the growth of B-cell cancers

  • Oral targeted therapy that can be taken at home under medical supervision

  • Used in several hematologic malignancies including CLL, SLL, and MCL

  • May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other treatments

  • Designed to selectively inhibit cancer-related pathways involved in tumor growth

Indications and Usage

Calquence (acalabrutinib) may be prescribed for adults with:

  • Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

  • Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL)

  • Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), including patients who have received prior therapy

  • Certain treatment regimens combining Calquence with other oncology medicines such as obinutuzumab, bendamustine, or rituximab, depending on clinical guidance

Use is determined by an oncologist based on diagnosis, treatment history, and clinical guidelines.

How it Works

Acalabrutinib works by inhibiting Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK), an enzyme that plays an important role in the B-cell receptor signaling pathway. In certain blood cancers, abnormal B-cells depend on this signaling pathway to survive and multiply.

By blocking BTK activity, acalabrutinib interferes with these signals, which can reduce the growth and survival of malignant B-cells. This targeted mechanism helps slow disease progression in some patients when used as prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional.

Dosage & Administration

  • Calquence capsules are taken orally with water.

  • The commonly recommended regimen is 100 mg approximately every 12 hours, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

  • Capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.

  • Treatment may continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, based on medical evaluation.

  • Dose adjustments may occur if side effects or drug interactions occur.

Side Effects

Common side effects

  • Headache

  • Diarrhea

  • Fatigue

  • Upper respiratory infections

  • Muscle or joint pain

  • Bruising or minor bleeding

Serious side effects

  • Severe infections

  • Low blood cell counts (anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)

  • Irregular heart rhythm such as atrial fibrillation

  • Secondary cancers including skin cancer

  • Severe bleeding events

Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience concerning symptoms.

Warning and Precaution

  • Increased risk of serious infections

  • Possible bleeding complications

  • Risk of low blood cell counts requiring monitoring

  • Potential heart rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation

  • Risk of secondary malignancies, including skin cancers

  • Pregnancy risk; may cause fetal harm

  • Inform healthcare providers before surgery or dental procedures

Patient Guidance

  • Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your oncologist

  • Attend regular blood tests and monitoring appointments

  • Report symptoms such as fever, unusual bleeding, or heart palpitations

  • Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take

  • Use sun protection, as skin cancer risk may increase

  • Do not stop treatment without consulting your doctor

Clinical Trial & Approvals

Acalabrutinib received FDA approval in 2017 for adults with previously treated mantle cell lymphoma, with later approvals expanding its use to include chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma.

Clinical studies evaluating acalabrutinib in B-cell malignancies demonstrated meaningful clinical activity, supporting regulatory approvals in several regions including the United States and Europe.

References

 

Calquence 100 mg Capsule is typically supplied against a valid prescription. For international shipments, patients may be required to provide documents such as a doctor’s prescription, identification, and country-specific import permissions, depending on local regulations. MedsMonk can assist with documentation guidance where applicable.

FAQ

What is Calquence 100 mg Capsule used for?+
It is used to treat certain blood cancers such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia, small lymphocytic lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma, as prescribed by a doctor.
What is the active ingredient in Calquence?+
The active ingredient is acalabrutinib, a BTK inhibitor.
Is Calquence chemotherapy?+
No. Calquence is considered a targeted cancer therapy, not traditional chemotherapy.
How is Calquence usually taken?+
It is typically taken twice daily (about every 12 hours) unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Can Calquence cause infections?+
Yes. Because it affects immune cells, there may be an increased risk of infections.
Can Calquence interact with other medicines?+
Yes. Some medicines, particularly CYP3A inhibitors or inducers, may affect acalabrutinib levels.
Do I need a prescription for Calquence?+
Yes. Calquence is a prescription-only oncology medicine and should be used under specialist supervision.
How should Calquence capsules be stored?+
Store at room temperature, protected from excessive heat and moisture, unless otherwise directed.

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