Ibruxen is an oral ibrutinib capsule. Available product information instructs patients to administer ibrutinib once daily at approximately the same time each day and swallow capsules whole with water. Capsules should not be opened, broken or chewed.
General administration principles
- Take Ibruxen exactly as prescribed.
- Take it at approximately the same time each day.
- Swallow the capsule whole with water.
- Do not open, break or chew the capsule.
- Do not independently change the prescribed dose.
- Keep the medicine in its original container according to the product instructions.
- Tell the healthcare team about all prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines and supplements.
Food considerations
The pharmacokinetics of ibrutinib are affected by food. Current U.S. prescribing information reports increased exposure with a high-fat, high-calorie meal compared with fasting. Patients should follow the administration instructions supplied with their specific product and prescription rather than making their own food-related adjustments.
Missed dose
Current U.S. IMBRUVICA labeling states that a missed dose can be taken as soon as possible on the same day, followed by the normal schedule the next day. Patients should not take extra doses to compensate for a missed dose.
Monitoring
Monitoring may include:
- Complete blood counts
- Signs of infection
- Blood pressure
- Cardiac symptoms
- Bleeding
- Liver function where clinically appropriate
- Drug interactions
- Symptoms of tumor lysis in at-risk patients
Surgery
Because ibrutinib can increase bleeding risk, the treating team should be informed before planned surgery or invasive procedures. The current U.S. label recommends considering withholding IMBRUVICA for at least 3 to 7 days before and after surgery depending on procedure and bleeding risk.
Storage
The specific Ibruxen product information available through pharmaceutical references states storage below 30°C, protected from light and out of children’s reach. Product packaging should be checked for the current manufacturer instructions.