Zanubrutinib (Brukinsa) is a medication used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). It is a kinase inhibitor, meaning it works by blocking certain enzymes in the body that help cancer cells to grow and spread. In clinical trials, Zanubrutinib has been shown to be effective in reducing the size of tumors, and in some cases, eliminating them entirely. It is typically used in combination with other treatments and is available in the form of a capsule. Common side effects of Zanubrutinib may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and muscle or joint pain.
Zanubrutinib, sold under the brand name Brukinsa, is an anticancer medication used for the treatment of several B-cell malignancies including:
- Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL)
- Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (WM)
- Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL)
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
It is classified as a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor. BTK is a protein that plays an important role in the survival of B cells, a type of white blood cell. By inhibiting BTK, zanubrutinib can help to kill cancer cells.
Zanubrutinib is given by mouth, typically once a day. It is an effective treatment for many patients with B-cell malignancies, but it can also cause side effects, such as:
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Bruising
- Increased risk of infection
If you are considering treatment with zanubrutinib, you should discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Here are some additional details about zanubrutinib:
- Mechanism of action: Zanubrutinib is a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor. BTK is a protein that plays an important role in the survival of B cells. By inhibiting BTK, zanubrutinib can help to kill cancer cells.
- FDA approval: Zanubrutinib was first approved by the FDA in 2019 for the treatment of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) that has relapsed or not responded to other treatments. It has since been approved for other B-cell malignancies.
- Clinical trials: Zanubrutinib is being studied in clinical trials for the treatment of other types of cancer.