Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Zydelig (Idelalisib).
Birth control: Women who may become pregnant should use effective birth control while taking Zydelig (Idelalisib) and for at least one month after stopping treatment. Because Zydelig (Idelalisib) may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, a barrier form of birth control should also be used.
Diarrhea: People receiving Zydelig (Idelalisib) have experienced severe diarrhea or inflammation of the bowel. If you have a history of inflammatory bowel disease, discuss with your doctor how Zydelig (Idelalisib) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Zydelig (Idelalisib), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Gastrointestinal problems can cause diarrhea that may lead to dehydration (loss of too much water from the body). If you experience severe diarrhea for more than a day, or if you have diarrhea along with fever, decreased urination, dizziness, or a fast heartbeat, contact your doctor immediately.
Hypersensitivity syndrome: A Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) called hypersensitivity syndrome has occurred for some people taking Zydelig (Idelalisib). Stop taking the medication and get immediate medical attention if you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including fever, swollen glands, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or flu-like symptoms with skin rash or blistering.
Infection: As well as killing cancer cells, Zydelig (Idelalisib) can reduce the number of cells that fight infection in the body (white blood cells). If possible, avoid contact with people with contagious infections. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice signs of an infection, such as fever or chills, severe diarrhea, shortness of breath, prolonged dizziness, headache, stiff neck, weight loss, or listlessness. Your doctor will do blood tests regularly to monitor the number of specific types of blood cells in your blood.
Serious and sometimes life-threatening infections can occur when taking Zydelig (Idelalisib). Antibiotics are often taken to prevent infections by certain bacteria during treatment with Zydelig (Idelalisib) and for several months after stopping Zydelig (Idelalisib).
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Zydelig (Idelalisib) to build up in the body, causing side effects. Zydelig (Idelalisib) may also reduce liver function and can cause liver failure. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Zydelig (Idelalisib) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Zydelig (Idelalisib), and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor will want to test your liver function regularly with blood tests while you are taking Zydelig (Idelalisib).
Zydelig (Idelalisib) is not recommended for people with hepatitis or active liver disease.
Lung inflammation: Lung inflammation (pneumonitis) causing difficulty breathing has occurred on rare occasions for some people taking Zydelig (Idelalisib). This complication can be serious and sometimes fatal. If you experience new or worsening shortness of breath or cough (with or without fever) at any time while you are taking Zydelig (Idelalisib), contact your doctor immediately.
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): There have been reports of PML after using Zydelig (Idelalisib). PML is a rare disorder that causes nerve damage in the brain. If you experience memory loss, vision loss, trouble thinking, or difficulty walking, contact your doctor immediately.
Sensitivity to sunlight: Zydelig (Idelalisib) may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, increasing the risk of Sunburn. Avoid exposure to sunlight for long periods of time, particularly between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 30 or greater. If you notice any unusual skin rash or peeling, contact your doctor immediately.
Pregnancy: Zydelig (Idelalisib) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Zydelig (Idelalisib), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Zydelig (Idelalisib) passes into breast milk. If you are breast-feeding and are taking Zydelig (Idelalisib), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Zydelig (Idelalisib) have not been established for children.
Seniors: Seniors may be likely to experience severe side effects from Zydelig (Idelalisib).