Acalabrutinib (Calquence)

General information

Class/mechanism: Irreversible inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), which is an enzyme that participates in the B-cell receptor (BCR) signal cascade and cytokine receptor pathways. BCR signaling is believed to promote cell proliferation, adhesion, and survival in B-cell malignancies. Inhibition of BTK interferes with the processes above, as well as B-cell chemotaxis and trafficking. More specific to BTK than the first-generation drug ibrutinib.
Route: PO
Extravasation: n/a

For conciseness and simplicity, HemOnc.org currently will focus on treatment regimens and not list information such as: renal/hepatic dose adjustments, metabolism (including CYP450), excretion, monitoring parameters (although this will be considered for checklists), or manufacturer. Instead, for the most current information, please refer to your preferred pharmacopeias such as Micromedex, Lexicomp, UpToDate (courtesy of Lexicomp), or the prescribing information.

Diseases for which it is used

• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL/SLL)
• Mantle cell lymphoma

Patient drug information

• Acalabrutinib (Calquence) package insert

History of changes in FDA indication

• 10/31/2017: Granted accelerated FDA approval "for treatment of adult patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) who have received at least one prior therapy."

Also known as

• Code name: ACP-196
• Brand name: Calquence