What are the side effects of Imbruvica?

[Rhetler]

My oncologist wants me on Imbruvica along with BR infusion. What side effects have you experienced with Imbruvica? Thanks for the replies.

[ahuitse]

Been on Imbruvica for only 17 days so for what its worth... zero side effects. Swelled nodes went down within 6 days.

[Cllcanada Top Poster CURE Hero]

Quite a long list... but for most it is diarrhea, joint stiffness , brittle fingernails, curly hair...

More here..

chemocare.com/chemotherapy/...

[Hidden in reply to Cllcanada]

Thanks. No wonder my platelet count is still low and I'm fatigued - Imbruvica causes the platelets to drop so I guess as long as I'm on Imbruvica they won't improve much at all. I've been on this drug for a year now.

[Rixlady]

DH has been on it over a year with no side effects.

[TinaOrdone]

I've had migrating joint pain, but that has subsided after 8 months. No other side effects. Platelet count was low at diagnosis last March (today is the first anniversary of diagnosis. Not celebrating. ) and is now steady in the low 300s. Last week, 311. Imbruvica has brought my WBC count down from a high of 180k to the present 35k and my RBC are in normal range. Best of luck with your treatment.

[richutchens]

I am in my 6th month of the drug. I have had no side effects except pretty severe bruising on arms. I get tired at night. I do indoor rowing 3 times a week at over 3000 meters at a time. The next day, I feel somewhat fatigued. That is the nature of CLL and I feel has little to do with the drug. Hang in there. You will be just fine. We are truly blessed to have a drug like this.

[kimiD]

I've had a quick response to Imbruvica. Started in Oct. 2016, brought my WBC from a high of 170k, down to 27k at last draw in Feb. These good results have not come without a few side effects. I have significant joint pain, constipation, and thinning hair. No matter how much I hydrate, I always have a dry mouth and dry skin. My nodes went back to normal size in the first two weeks. I hope you get some great results with your treatment!

[Gracescooter]

My husband has mantle cell and is being treated with imbruvica. He is on day 38 with low platelets (31) and a low row. His WBC is at 15. Side affects have been leg and side cramps and fatigue. Appetite is great but not any weight gain unfortunately. Hard to find much from real people regarding mantle cell