BRUKINSA (zanubrutinib), an orally administered Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, has been approved in various countries for the treatment of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, and marginal zone lymphoma. For example, it has been approved for the treatment of MCL in nine countries, including the United States, Brazil, and Canada. According to Pharmaceutical Business Review, the therapy has now been approved in a 10th country: Russia.
BRUKINSA
According to the BRUKINSA website, the treatment showed efficacy within a series of clinical trials. Altogether, 118 previously-treated patients were treated with BRUKINSA. Of these, 84% (99 patients) responded well to treatment. Additionally, 80% (94 patients) continued responding to treatment over the course of one year, suggesting a durable and sustained response.
Patients taking BRUKINSA may take 160mg 2x daily or 320mg 1x daily. If you are going to be taking BRUKINSA, please speak to your doctor to determine the best plan of action for your treatment.
BRUKINSA’s approval in Russia now highlights the push to continue providing high-quality care and medication access to patients across the globe.
Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL)
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) exists under the umbrella of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), cancers associated with the lymphatic system. While doctors are not sure of the exact cause of MCL, many hypothesize that genetic mutations cause the over-release of cyclin D1 protein, spurring uncontrolled B-cell growth. These cancerous lymph nodes cause complications beginning in the mantle zone, though they could later spread throughout the body. In early stages, many patients are asymptomatic (having no symptoms). However, as MCL progresses, symptoms can include:
- Enlarged lymph nodes (neck, throat, elbows, shoulders, chest)
- Appetite loss
- Headache or dizziness
- Poor balance
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent fever
- Enlarged tonsils, liver, or spleen
- Sense of fullness
- Indigestion or bloating
- Heartburn
- Unintended weight loss
- Back pain or pressure which continues down one or both legs
- Changes in mood or personality
- Bowel issues, such as diarrhea or constipation