New to Ibrutinib but not CLL

[Jacinto40]

I just started taking Ibrutinib in Sept 7th; I am 79 years old and had CLL in 2011. I was treated with CFR injections which worked well but the disease has come back.

No other health problems, and no history of taking any medications. I live in Portugal so food issue may be a little different. I am a vegetarian, and I know I will miss some of my favorite foods & fruits.

Thanking all in advance for any help & advice. ed

[lankisterguy Volunteer]

Hi Jacinto40

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Welcome to our group, we hope we can share some experiences with you. We have quite a few members that are vegetarians, and perhaps they will provide some pointers.

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There may be some blood test results that need more attention for you- perhaps Vitamin B-12, Iron & Ferritin, (and Vitamin D-3?). These should be tested and only supplmented if indicated by regular testing by your doctor.

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The list of foods that you should avoid on Ibrutinb is fairly small- including grapefruit/grapefruit juice, Seville/bitter oranges (usually found only in marmalade), and a few references include star fruit and pomegranates. Other citrus fruits are OK.

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You may want to read the Pinned Posts on this page, especially

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healthunlocked.com/cllsuppo......

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healthunlocked.com/cllsuppo....

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Again, welcome, please let us know how we can help you.

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Len

[Hidden]

Hi Jacinto40, I'm 71 and live in Spain. I've been taking Ibrutinib for 15 months since diagnosis as I am tp53. My only side effect has been my once straight fine hair has become thick and curly. I don't intentionally avoid anything except Seville oranges and grapefruit as advised by my Oncologist. My food tastes have definitely changed as I eat very little at one sitting, no longer eat meat from choice and prefer to graze throughout the day. If we were to go out for an evening meal it would be tapas for me! Good luck for the future.

[Jacinto40 in reply to Hidden]

Hello Madlily;

thanks for your reply - I have not had any problems eating yet, but I have decreased my spices. Any advice would be welcome. Jacinto40

[Hidden in reply to Jacinto40]

I don't have much advice food wise but in general my advice would be to do do whatever you can when you can. We are both lucky in that we have the sun to raise our mood.