Could anyone share their thoughts on the use of Imbruvica (ibrutinib)?

[note2]

what have your experiences been with using Imbruvica (ibrutinib)? side effects? lifestyle changes?

[sgmike]

I have been taking Imbruvica for close to 6 years. At the time it was considered a breakthrough drug for CLL. Side effects vary. You can find them on internet. I have been fortunate limited side effects. Mostly bone and muscle pain. It has worked well for me keeping blood counts in check and reducing lymph nodes almost immediately after starting to take it.

[lizfuccillo]

I have been on Imbruvica for 8 months and have experienced quite a few side effects, the most serious being tightening of my throat to the point where swallowing is impeded. I also have experienced severe acid reflux, muscle cramps, bruising, fatigue and nose bleeds. My oncologist lowered my dosage from 420mg to 280mg and it has been effective in reducing many of the side effects especially the fatigue, nose bleeds ( which are completely gone) and reduced the bruising. Just recently started seeing petechiae (small red spots under the skin caused by bleeding). Despite all of these side effects I will continue on this remarkable medicine - it sure beats traditional chemotherapy!

[lizakgirl]

My husband has used it for 3 years with hardly any side affects at all! It has been a God sent! His energy is back! He hikes! There is some nausea, but he found if he took it right after dinner it worked best. good luck!

[dongra]

I was on Imbruvica for a very short time. It elevated my blood pressure, I also developed A-Fib while one this med. The med did do its job, but I did have side effects, Bad news, the good news is at this time there are many other meds that have positive results with CLL. I am currently on Venclexta, it is working . All meds have sometime of side effects, that effect some and not others.

[JLJC in reply to dongra]

Hi dongra. When you say you are on venclexta are you on it in combination with an antibody or just by itself?