Information for the public
Acalabrutinib (Calquence) is available on the NHS. It is a possible treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) in adults who have not had treatment before, if:
- it’s given on its own, not in combination with other drugs, and
- there’s a 17p deletion or a TP53 mutation, or
- there is no 17p deletion or TP53 mutation, and fludarabine with cyclophosphamide and rituximab (FCR), or bendamustine with rituximab (BR), is unsuitable.
It is also available on its own for adults who have already had other treatment for CLL.
If you are not eligible for acalabrutinib but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your doctor decide when best to stop.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS website may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Leukaemia Care, 08088 010 444
- Lymphoma Action, 0808 808 5555
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia Support, 0800 977 4396
- Cancer Research UK, 0808 800 4040
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-4092-9
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