Ibrutinib and High Blood Pressure: What Users Say

• Fhe...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• May 26, 2019

Ibrutinib for Waldenström Macroglobulinemia "Initially, Imbruvica caused rather severe fatigue in the first two months, after which it gradually improved. The most noticeable side effect is frequent diarrhea. I take 1 Imodium cap almost every day and 2 after very loose stool. Also, considerably raised blood pressure. Added 2 meds for this. I’m about 18 months after diagnosis, and basic blood work shows white, red, and platelet counts normal, but IgM protein level still elevated, but steadily decreasing. Usually feeling good, but still have unpredictable, but short episodes of fatigue requiring several hours of rest. The manufacturer provides a $30 supplement, a pittance considering the monthly cost of $11,000."

• Sad...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• August 24, 2021

Ibrutinib for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia "My husband did very well on Imbruvica, taking one pill three times a day. When he was switched to the same dosage once a day, within months he had a VF heart attack, went on life support, never recovered, never had cardiac issues, or was told to get a cardiologist. High BP and smoked. I suspect the med but don't know for sure. My advice is to get a cardiologist if you take this medication."

• 50...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 9, 2020

For Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia "Honestly, I felt like I was close to slipping away. My white blood cell count was over six times the normal. I no longer had any energy to walk the treadmill. I had gone nearly deaf in one ear and was having trouble breathing at night. I had lost 30 pounds in six months. After just five days on ibrutinib, I started to feel some better. After five months on this, my white blood cell count is normal. I've gained most of the weight back that I lost. My blood pressure did raise 20 points, the only side effect I had."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 24, 2021

For Waldenström Macroglobulinemia "I was diagnosed with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM), and in 2009, attempted treatments by Rituxan infusion, as well as several types of medication, all had been of no avail. Using the old drug, Leukeran, made improvements, however, with diminishing efficacy. I have had Imbruvica for about two years, with dosages first at 420 mg, then reduced to 280 mg. My IgM level dropped, and RBC count and HGB level both increased quickly in a few months. To date, IgM at 1000 and RBC and HGB in normal range (though on the high side), as well as platelet and ANC (on the low side). Side effects are bruising, high blood pressure, and indication of atrial fibrillation. Currently seeking a cardiologist's determination."

• pat...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• April 29, 2023

Ibrutinib for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma "I developed afib, high blood pressure, dizziness, tiredness, and slightly blurred eyesight. I can only take 1/4 dose as I had an allergic reaction to the full dose. It appears to have slowed the progression of the lymphoma. I depend on the Pan Foundation or Johnson and Johnson to help with the price of the medication, as I also have infusions every 8 weeks at $963."

• Pen...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• May 4, 2021

Ibrutinib for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma "Started taking Imbruvica on May 4, 2017. Frequent lab work and doctor visits. The drug is keeping cancer at bay, and no new cancer is growing. Minimal side effects with only high blood pressure."