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October 23
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MyLeukemiaTeam

Are others on Brukinsa (zanubrutinib) experiencing a swollen arm and being prescribed a prophylactic antibiotic?

Swelling (edema) and an increased risk of infection are both known side effects of Brukinsa. A swollen arm can sometimes signal a localized infection or lymphatic issue, which may explain why your doctor added a Show Full Answer

Are others on Brukinsa (zanubrutinib) experiencing a swollen arm and being prescribed a prophylactic antibiotic?

Swelling (edema) and an increased risk of infection are both known side effects of Brukinsa. A swollen arm can sometimes signal a localized infection or lymphatic issue, which may explain why your doctor added a daily antibiotic as a precaution. Prophylactic (preventive) antibiotics are sometimes prescribed alongside leukemia treatments to reduce infection risk, especially when:

- Your white blood cell count is low
- You're on a reduced dose that may affect your immune response
- There's localized swelling that could indicate infection risk

While it's hard to say exactly how many others share this experience, it's not an unusual approach for doctors managing Brukinsa side effects.

It's worth keeping a close eye on the swelling and reporting any changes — like increased redness, warmth, or fever — to your doctor right away. You're in good hands asking questions like this! 👍

October 23
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

My ill affect was a strange cough for 7 months that my doctors could not solve. My pharmacist told me this was an ill affect. I stopped the medication for a month and the cough stopped. Now I take 50% dose with no problem and all my blood tests are 100% normal. My general health is very good and I am active in the morning and relax in the afternoon. I think my life is back to normal?

October 25

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