What Is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)?
Explore how Calquence (acalabrutinib) is helping patients in the U.S. manage chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Learn how it works, who it's for, and how it compares to other leading CLL drugs.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a slow-growing cancer of the bone marrow and blood. It affects B lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that normally helps fight infection. CLL primarily affects older adults and is the most common form of leukemia in the U.S.
Treatment is often based on disease progression, symptoms, and genetic factors.
What Is Calquence?
Calquence (acalabrutinib) is an FDA-approved Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, developed by AstraZeneca, used in the treatment of:
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL)
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL, under certain conditions)
It works by blocking the BTK protein, which is critical for cancer cell survival and growth in CLL.
How Calquence Works for CLL
Calquence helps by:
Inhibiting abnormal B-cell signaling
Slowing or stopping the growth of cancerous Bcells
Reducing lymph node swelling and lowering white blood cell counts
It's an oral medication taken either once or twice daily depending on the regimen.
Key Benefits of Calquence
Effective for both treatment-naive and relapsed/refractory CLL patients
Better tolerability compared to first-generation BTK inhibitors like ibrutinib
Fewer cardiovascular side effects, especially atrial fibrillation
Minimal drug-drug interactions for many patients
Common Side Effects
Headache
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Muscle pain
Easy bruising
Upper respiratory infections
While generally well-tolerated, patients should be monitored for bleeding risks and cytopenias.
How Calquence Compares to Other CLL Medications
Calquence is often compared to:
Imbruvica (ibrutinib) – another BTK inhibitor with more cardiac risk
Venclexta (venetoclax) – BCL-2 inhibitor that works differently but often used in combination regimens
Zydelig (idelalisib) – PI3K inhibitor with higher risk of infections
Doctors choose based on patient age, mutation status (e.g., del(17p), TP53), comorbidities, and treatment goals.
Insurance and Access in the U.S.
Covered by most Medicare Part D and private insurance plans
AstraZeneca Access360 offers copay assistance and patient support programs
Monthly cost can range from $14,000–$16,000 before insurance or discounts