Zydelig's potential adverse reactions: Typical, modestly intense, and severe
Zydelig (idelalisib): Potential Long-Term Side Effects for CLL Treatment
Zydelig, a brand-name prescription medication, is approved by the FDA to treat relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in certain adults. While it can be an effective treatment, it's essential to be aware of its potential long-term side effects.
The most significant long-term risks associated with Zydelig include immune-related toxicities affecting the liver, gut, lungs, and susceptibility to serious infections.
Immune-Related Toxicities
Severe liver problems may manifest as elevated liver enzymes or liver damage. Patients should be vigilant for signs of liver damage, such as pain in the upper side of the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include jaundice and unusual bleeding or bruising.
Severe diarrhea or colitis can also occur, sometimes requiring hospitalization due to inflammation of the colon. If you experience persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or blood in your stool, consult your doctor immediately.
Lung inflammation (pneumonitis) can cause difficulty breathing and requires prompt treatment. Symptoms include new or worsening shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
Increased Risk of Infections
Zydelig can lower your immune system's ability to fight infections, increasing your risk of serious infections, including opportunistic infections. It's crucial to practice good hygiene, avoid crowds, and stay current with your vaccines, such as a yearly flu shot, to help prevent infections.
Other Considerations
Zydelig is not safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you or your sexual partner can become pregnant, it's recommended that you both use effective birth control during Zydelig treatment. Females should continue to use birth control for 1 month after their last dose, while males are advised to use birth control for 3 months after their last dose.
If you drink alcohol, it's best to avoid it during Zydelig treatment. Consuming alcohol doesn't affect how Zydelig works to treat your condition. However, the drug may cause serious liver problems. Drinking too much alcohol can also harm your liver. So consuming alcohol while taking Zydelig may increase your risk of liver damage.
Zydelig is typically prescribed as a long-term treatment and is available in oral tablet form. Your doctor will order blood tests to check your liver health. Be sure to keep all of your lab appointments. If you have liver problems from Zydelig, your doctor may change your dosage or stop your treatment.
In summary, while Zydelig can be an effective treatment for CLL, it's crucial to be aware of its potential long-term side effects. Close monitoring is essential to manage these risks effectively. If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, consult your doctor right away.
- The long-term use of Zydelig, a medication for treating certain adults with CLL, may lead to significant immune-related toxicities affecting various organs such as the liver, gut, lungs, and increasing susceptibility to severe infections.
- In addition to the potential for organ damage and increased risk of infections, Zydelig should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, and alcohol consumption should be avoided during treatment due to the risk of liver damage.
- As a long-term treatment for CLL, Zydelig is available in oral form and requires close monitoring, including regular blood tests to check liver health, to manage its side effects and ensure health and wellness.
