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My doctor just started me on treatment last week beginning with Calquence. Anyone on this share their experiences would be appreciated.

A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Saint Louis, MO

I had anxiety because I read a whole list of side effects from the pharmacy. I have a great care team but this all new for me after watch and wait since 2017.

June 6
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A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Hi Randy. In Dec. 2005 my blood tests indicated high white blood cell count. In 2006 CLL was confirmed by a bone marrow biopsy. I was considered in remission until 2022 when CLL started to present with infections. I started infusions of immunoglobulins in Nov. 2022. I had an immune system crash in December 2024, was hospitalized, and upon discharge I was prescribed Brukinsa, similar to Calquence. So far so good. I do feel fatigued, am definitely weaker, and have bruising and red spots are all over me. I'd say I'm doing OK on the chemo pills. I bet you will, too, even if you don't like all the minor side effects. 😁

June 7
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Randy,

I take a similar treatment. I had side effects with my BTK inhibitor. Because of the side effects I had, I was prescribed a lower dose. Calquence is usually two pills a day. If side effects are concerning, the dosage can be reduced to one pill a day. Just keep your medical team informed about your side effects. I kept a list of each side effect i had. I messaged my nurse about the more concerning side effects and also took my list to my appointments.

I think you will do great, but let your medical team know if you aren’t.

Donna

June 6
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Thanks Donna!

June 6
MyLeukemiaTeam

Starting treatment after years of watch and wait is a big transition, and it's completely understandable to feel anxious — especially after reading that pharmacy side effect list (those things could scare anyone!). The good news is that having a great care team already puts you in a strong position.

Calquence Show Full Answer

Starting treatment after years of watch and wait is a big transition, and it's completely understandable to feel anxious — especially after reading that pharmacy side effect list (those things could scare anyone!). The good news is that having a great care team already puts you in a strong position.

Calquence (acalabrutinib) does come with a list of possible side effects, but not everyone experiences all of them. The most commonly reported ones include:

- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Muscle and joint pain
- Increased risk of infection
- Low red and white blood cell counts
- Low platelet counts
- Irregular heartbeat
- Skin sensitivity to sunlight (sunscreen is a must!) One really important tip — always let your care team know about any new or worsening side effects, even ones that seem minor. They can't help manage what they don't know about, and there are often ways to adjust or support your treatment to make things more comfortable.

Also, sunscreen every day is genuinely important while on Calquence, as it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Many MyLeukemiaTeam members have found that open, honest communication with their oncologist made a huge difference in managing side effects and feeling more in control of their treatment journey.

June 6

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