Does lemon contraindicate Imbruvica

[wilhoitaz]

-I am in remission cut down to 2/3 of medication (CLL)--I know that the wonderful colored grapefruit is bad-but have heard different takes on lemons--I have avoided them for3 years of treatment out of precaution --looking for something definitive --Thanks to all!

Sensational year from garden -remember my salads with lemon juice as dressing.

[cllady01 Former Volunteer]

It isn't vitamin C that is the problem with BTKIs, it is an enzyme: CYP3A4, an intestinal enzyme that aids in metabolism that can be blocked by grapefruit and others (see below) and the medication can stay too long and perhaps too strong in the system.

Other fruits such as Seville oranges (think marmalade), pomelos, and tangelos. There may be others, but those are the main ones to avoid.

Enjoy lemon and lime--and as in all things, enjoy in moderation!