CLL Treatments using Ibrutinib

[jaysearch]

Just joined. Diagnosed in 2011, and in 2014, was treated with older chemo drugs which didn't work.

Started Ibrutinib in 2015 and had to stop after 3 months to remove an unrelated Melanoma. Went back on Ibrutinib in Aug 2017. Experiencing mouth sores but using baking soda helped. Also having bouts of Thrush, but Nystatin helps a lot. Now Ibrutinib not working well enough. Any ideas out there? Is there some cause for the Ibrutinib to stop working, or am I just "lucky". I have been on various antibiotics, and I also have meds for COPD. Thanks to anyone with an idea.

[AussieNeil Partner Administrator]

Unfortunately, CLL can find its way around treatments - resistant clones can develop. The mechanisms for this happening with Ibrutinib are gradually being understood and those at increased risk of this occurring can even be identified in research testing. If Ibrutinib no longer works for you, then the current options are switching to Idelalisib, Venetoclax or a clinical trial including these or other promising drugs. Other members have reported their experience doing so - you are not alone.

Neil

[jaysearch in reply to AussieNeil]

Thanks. I needed that response. I'll check with doc re your info, since she gave me the mandatory "here's what we'll try if the Imbruvica stops working" speech.

[nobby00]

this seems to be what's happening my husband .He has been taking ibruvica for 18 months. Took idelalisib for a year but had to stop due to chest infections. Till now had been doing well, through his blood never got to be normal ! I am worried about what happen he has been in hospital with chest infection and tummy bug lin