Acaya contains the active ingredient Acalabrutinib, a next-generation oral medication used in the treatment of certain blood cancers. It belongs to a class of medicines known as Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Acaya is designed to selectively target cancerous B-cells, which are a type of white blood cell involved in certain types of lymphomas and leukemias. This medicine is often prescribed for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or mantle cell lymphoma and is known for its precision and reduced risk of affecting healthy cells compared to older therapies.

Mechanism of Action

Acalabrutinib works by blocking an enzyme called Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, which plays a crucial role in the survival and growth of B-cells. In cancers like chronic lymphocytic leukemia and mantle cell lymphoma, B-cells grow uncontrollably and do not die when they should. By inhibiting this specific enzyme, Acaya interferes with the signals that promote B-cell growth and survival. This leads to the death of cancerous B-cells or slows their growth, helping to control the disease while sparing most normal cells, thereby reducing the likelihood of some severe side effects.

Uses
Acaya is prescribed for the treatment of:

• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, including patients with previously untreated or relapsed forms of the disease

• Small lymphocytic lymphoma, which is biologically similar to chronic lymphocytic leukemia

• Mantle cell lymphoma in adults who have received at least one prior treatment

  Adverse Effects
  While Acaya is generally well tolerated, it may cause some side effects. Common side effects include headache, diarrhea, fatigue, muscle pain, and nausea. Some patients may experience infections, bruising more easily than usual, or a decrease in blood cell counts.

  Less commonly, serious side effects such as irregular heartbeat, bleeding problems, and severe infections can occur. There may also be a risk of developing second primary cancers, including skin cancer, so regular skin checks are advised. It is important for patients to report any unusual symptoms such as persistent fever, chest pain, sudden bleeding, or changes in heart rhythm to their healthcare provider promptly.

  Ongoing monitoring through regular blood tests and follow-ups is essential during treatment to ensure both safety and effectiveness.