Experiencing Side Effects with Venclexta: Guidance on Handling Them
Venclexta, a medication used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), can have several side effects. It's crucial for patients to be aware of these potential issues and discuss them with their doctors.
One common side effect for those taking Venclexta for CLL, SLL, or AML is low levels of certain blood cells. This can be a serious side effect, and symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, and increased susceptibility to infections.
For individuals with CLL or SLL, infections can be a serious side effect of Venclexta. Symptoms of an infection may include difficulty breathing, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, fever, and fatigue. If you develop any symptoms of an infection while taking Venclexta, it's important to talk with your doctor right away.
For people taking Venclexta for AML, unexpected bleeding from the gums, nose, rectum, and digestive tract can be a common side effect. Swelling, especially of the arms or legs, is also a possible side effect. Swelling most often occurs in the arms, legs, feet, or hands.
Low blood pressure can be a serious side effect of Venclexta. If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, contact your doctor immediately.
Venclexta may increase the risk of infection, which can occur in people taking Venclexta for CLL, SLL, or AML. In many cases, infections are mild and can be treated with antibiotics or other medications. However, in some cases, they may be more severe and require hospitalisation.
Additional, less common side effects include fertility problems in males, swelling of arms, legs, hands, or feet, dizziness, cough, sore throat, low blood pressure, muscle and joint pain, rash, bleeding, and various infections such as lung infection and bloodstream infection.
Before taking Venclexta, it's essential to discuss your health history with your doctor. This drug may not be the right treatment for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health.
It's also important to note that Venclexta can cause diarrhea and cough as common side effects. If you notice swelling in your arms or legs while you take Venclexta, talk with your doctor about how to treat it. In some cases, they may recommend elevating your arm or leg to try to decrease the swelling. If your swelling is severe, your doctor may recommend a prescription medication, such as a diuretic, to ease the swelling.
Tumor lysis syndrome can be a serious side effect of Venclexta. If you can become pregnant, your doctor will order a pregnancy test before you start taking Venclexta. They'll also recommend that you use an effective form of birth control while taking Venclexta and for at least 30 days after stopping treatment.
If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking Venclexta, it's essential to contact your doctor right away. While most side effects are manageable, some can be serious and require prompt medical attention.
References: - AbbVie data and prescribing information for Venclexta in AML [1] - Canadian pharmacy info and clinical summaries [2][4]
- Discussions about potential side effects, such as low blood cell levels, unexpected bleeding, infections, and diarrhea, are crucial when considering therapies and treatments like Venclexta for health conditions like chronic lymphocytic leukemia, small lymphocytic lymphoma, and acute myeloid leukemia.
- Venclexta can increase the risk of various infections, which may range from mild to severe and could necessitate hospitalization.
- Leukemia patients taking Venclexta may encounter less common side effects including fertility problems, swelling, cough, low blood pressure, muscle and joint pain, rash, bleeding, and diverse infections.
- Pregnancy precautions are advised when using Venclexta, as it can lead to a serious side effect called tumor lysis syndrome. Effective forms of birth control are recommended during treatment and for at least 30 days afterward.
