The safest and simplest method to handle when discontinuing Pitobrutinib/Pitobrutinib (Zepali)

Pitobrutinib/Pirtobrutinib (pirtobrutinib), as a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, is mainly used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia and other B cell malignancies. Since the drug has a sustained inhibitory effect on B cell proliferation and survival, sudden discontinuation may lead to disease rebound or rapid changes in hematological indicators. Therefore, before discontinuing medication, patients should fully communicate with their attending physician, assess their condition, blood indicators and potential risks, and formulate an individualized discontinuation plan to ensure the safety of treatment.

It is generally safer to use a gradual tapering method when discontinuing medication. The doctor will design a plan to slowly reduce the dose based on the patient's current medication dose, treatment time and hematological condition to allow the body to gradually adapt to the impact of reduced medication. This approach can effectively reduce the risk of rapid disease recurrence or symptom exacerbation, while reducing potential adverse reactions. During the reduction process, patients need to regularly review blood routine, lymphocyte count and related biochemical indicators to ensure that their physical condition is stable.

During the withdrawal process, patients should pay attention to observe their body's reaction, especially whether there is swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, or abnormal blood indicators. Once obvious symptoms or abnormal indicators appear, you should contact your doctor immediately for treatment. Doctors may adjust the medication discontinuation plan based on specific circumstances, and restart medication or take other auxiliary treatment measures when necessary to ensure disease control and physical safety.

In addition, lifestyle management and auxiliary treatment should also be provided during drug withdrawal. Maintaining a regular schedule, a balanced diet, and moderate exercise, while avoiding infection and overexertion, can help reduce the stress on the body caused by drug withdrawal. For some high-risk patients, doctors may recommend the concurrent use of other supportive medications to maintain hematological stability and thereby reduce the risk of recurrence. Overall, following your doctor's guidance, gradual progress, and close monitoring when stopping medication is the safest and easiest way to handle it.

Reference materials:https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/216059s002lbl.pdf