Common brand names

• Copiktra

How it is administered

Duvelisib is taken by mouth as a capsule. It is available in 25 mg and 15 mg capsules. The usual recommended dose is 25 mg taken twice daily, with or without food. The capsules should be swallowed whole and not opened, broken, or chewed.

How it works

Duvelisib is a type of targeted cancer therapy known as a PI3K inhibitor. It works by blocking specific proteins called PI3K-δ and PI3K-γ, which are involved in the growth and survival of certain blood cancer cells. By inhibiting these proteins, duvelisib can slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells, particularly those found in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and other blood cancers.

Duvelisib also affects the movement and function of immune cells, including T cells and macrophages, which can help reduce the supportive environment that cancer cells use to grow. This dual action helps control the disease, especially in patients who have already received other treatments.

Who should take it

Duvelisib is approved for adults with relapsed or refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) who have already tried at least two other treatments. It is not recommended for use as the first or second treatment for these conditions due to an increased risk of treatment-related deaths.

If you have CLL or SLL and your cancer has come back or has not responded to at least two previous therapies, duvelisib may be considered as an option. Your healthcare provider will determine if this medication is appropriate for you based on your medical history and previous treatments.

Who should not take it

There are no absolute contraindications listed for duvelisib, but it should be used with caution in certain groups. It is not recommended for patients as a first or second line treatment for CLL or SLL due to increased risk of death. Pregnant women should not take duvelisib, as it can cause harm to an unborn baby. Women who are breastfeeding should also avoid this medication.

People with active, serious infections should have these treated before starting duvelisib. Your doctor will also monitor you closely if you have a history of liver problems, low blood counts, or lung issues. Always inform your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions before starting duvelisib.

Commonly used with

Duvelisib is generally used alone for relapsed or refractory CLL or SLL after other treatments have failed. It is not typically combined with other cancer medicines in this setting, but your doctor may prescribe supportive medications such as antibiotics or antivirals to prevent infections during treatment.

It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as duvelisib can interact with other drugs, especially those that affect the liver enzyme CYP3A4.

Commonly tested with

In clinical studies, duvelisib has been compared to other treatments such as ofatumumab (an antibody therapy) in patients with CLL or SLL. It is not usually tested in combination with other cancer drugs for these conditions, but research may be ongoing in other blood cancers.

Your doctor may also order regular blood tests to monitor your blood counts, liver function, and infection status while you are taking duvelisib.