Calquence (acalabrutinib) is a Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, a type of targeted therapy used to treat B-cell malignancies—cancers that affect a type of white blood cell called B lymphocytes.

It works by blocking BTK, an enzyme essential for B-cell receptor signaling, which cancerous B cells rely on for growth, survival, and spread. By inhibiting this pathway, Calquence helps slow or stop the progression of cancer.

FDA-approved uses:

• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)

• Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL)

• Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) (for adults who have received at least one prior therapy)

Administration:

• Taken orally, usually 100 mg twice daily, with or without food

• Capsules should be swallowed whole (not crushed or chewed)

Common side effects:

• Headache

• Diarrhea

• Fatigue

• Muscle aches

• Bruising

Serious risks:

• Infections

• Bleeding complications

• Atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm issues

• Cytopenias (low blood cell counts)

Calquence is often better tolerated than older BTK inhibitors like ibrutinib, with potentially fewer cardiovascular side effects.