Venetoclax
Venetoclax Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Venetoclax is a brand name. Its generic name is Venetoclax.
Introduction
Venetoclax is a B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL2) inhibitor drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2016. It is used to treat certain types of leukemia and lymphoma. Venetoclax works by interfering with the activity of BCL2 proteins, which stop the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Uses
Venetoclax is used to treat some types of leukemia or lymphoma, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). It may also be used to treat other types of blood cancers.
Mechanism of Action
Venetoclax works by inhibiting the Bcl-2 protein. This prevents cancer cells from surviving or spreading, killing them in the process. It binds to Bcl-2, blocking it from being activated. This stops cancer cells from growing.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Venetoclax can take up to 6 weeks or more to reach its full effect. In some cases, it can work in as little as 3 weeks. It is important to keep taking it as prescribed and not stop taking it early, even if you are feeling better, as this can cause the cancer to return.
Absorption
Venetoclax is entirely absorbed by the body, with peak levels being reached within 1-2 hours after ingestion. It is rapidly broken down in the liver and eliminated from the body.
Route of Elimination
Venetoclax is rapidly eliminated from the body, mainly through the kidneys and to a lesser extent via the feces. It is eliminated from the body in an unchanged form.
Dosage
The recommended dose for Venetoclax is 400 mg administered orally once a day. This dose may be increased over a period of months to a maximum recommended dose of 800 mg per day, depending on the health of the patient. Patients should not take more than 800 mg per day.
Administration
Venetoclax should be taken orally with a glass of water, with or without food. The tablet must be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day for best results.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Venetoclax include nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and cough. Serious side effects may include anemia, liver problems, and low platelet or white blood cell count. Talk to your doctor if you have any of these side effects.
Toxicity
Venetoclax is generally well tolerated, but serious side effects can occur. If you experience severe side effects or symptoms of toxicity, contact your doctor right away. Symptoms of toxicity may include confusion, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat.
Precautions
Before taking Venetoclax, you should tell your doctor if you have any allergies, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have any medical conditions, or are taking any other medications. You should also avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Interactions
Venetoclax can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. You should tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Venetoclax. Do not start any new medications without first talking to your doctor.
Disease Interaction
Venetoclax can worsen some medical conditions and should not be used if you have certain medical conditions including liver or kidney disease, certain heart diseases, or if you have a history of serious allergic reactions. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking Venetoclax.
Drug Interactions
Venetoclax can interact with several other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. You should tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Venetoclax.
Food Interactions
Venetoclax can interact with some foods and beverages, including grapefruit, citrus juices, and high-fat meals. It is best to avoid these foods while taking Venetoclax. You should talk to your doctor if you have any questions about what foods to avoid.
Pregnancy Use
Venetoclax is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their doctor before taking this medication.
Lactation Use
Venetoclax is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Women who are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed should talk to their doctor before taking this medication.
Acute Overdose
If an overdose of Venetoclax is suspected, contact Poison Control or seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, and confusion.
Contraindication
Venetoclax is not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, including advanced liver or kidney disease, certain heart diseases, and a history of serious allergic reactions. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking Venetoclax.
Use Direction
Venetoclax should be taken as directed by your doctor. Take it with food or without food, as directed. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow it whole with a glass of water. Take it at the same time every day for best results.
Storage Condition
Venetoclax should be stored at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
Venetoclax has a volume of distribution of 7.1 L/kg. This means that it is widely distributed through the body and can reach most tissues.
Half Life
The half-life of Venetoclax is approximately 15 hours. This means that it takes 15 hours for the drug to reduce to half of its original concentration in the body.
Clearance
The clearance rate of Venetoclax is 21.6 mL/min. This means that it is quickly eliminated from the body by the liver and kidneys.
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