ixazomib citrate at a glance
Medicine class
Oral proteasome inhibitor used as targeted anticancer treatment.
Licensed role
Used with lenalidomide and dexamethasone for previously treated multiple myeloma in adults.
Taking the capsule
Swallow whole with water on an empty stomach; do not open, crush or chew it.
What is ixazomib citrate used for?
The selected UK product is licensed for:
Multiple myeloma in adults who have received at least one previous therapy, when used with lenalidomide and dexamethasone.
How does ixazomib citrate work?
Ixazomib citrate is rapidly converted in the body to ixazomib. It blocks part of the proteasome—the cell machinery that removes unwanted proteins—causing protein stress and promoting the death of susceptible myeloma cells.
ixazomib citrate preparations and strengths
Capsule
Route: Oral
Strengths: 2.3 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg
How to take ixazomib citrate
Follow the treatment calendar supplied by the specialist team.
Take it at least one hour before or at least two hours after food.
Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not crush, chew or open it.
Keep it in its original packaging and remove it only immediately before taking it.
Avoid touching the contents of a damaged capsule; wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water.
ixazomib citrate side effects
Common or expected effects
- Diarrhoea, constipation, nausea or vomiting
- Low platelet or neutrophil counts, increasing bleeding or infection risk
- Respiratory infections or shingles
- Numbness, tingling or pain in the hands or feet
- Rash
- Swelling of the legs or ankles
- Back or joint pain
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe infection or very low blood-cell counts
- Severe allergic reaction
- Blistering or peeling skin reactions
- Thrombotic microangiopathy
- Seizure, severe headache, confusion or visual disturbance
- Significant liver injury or severe gastrointestinal illness
ixazomib citrate in pregnancy
Ixazomib is not recommended during pregnancy because it may harm the fetus, and lenalidomide has strict pregnancy-prevention requirements. People who could conceive or cause a pregnancy must use effective contraception during treatment and for 90 days afterwards. Hormonal contraceptive users should also use a barrier method. Suspected or confirmed pregnancy requires prompt specialist review.
ixazomib citrate while breastfeeding
Breastfeeding must be stopped during treatment. It is unknown whether ixazomib enters human milk, and a risk to the infant cannot be excluded. Lenalidomide is also incompatible with breastfeeding.
ixazomib citrate interactions
The specialist team should check prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and herbal remedies before treatment.
Strong CYP3A inducers, including rifampicin, carbamazepine and phenytoin
These can substantially reduce ixazomib exposure and may reduce effectiveness, so combined use should be avoided where possible.
St John’s wort
This may reduce ixazomib exposure and should be avoided.
Hormonal contraceptives
Dexamethasone may reduce contraceptive effectiveness, so an additional barrier method is required.
Common questions about ixazomib citrate
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is ixazomib citrate chemotherapy or targeted treatment?
It is an oral targeted anticancer treatment called a proteasome inhibitor.
Can ixazomib citrate be taken with food?
No. Take it at least one hour before or at least two hours after food because food reduces ixazomib exposure.
Can the capsule be opened?
No. Swallow it whole and do not open, crush or chew it. Contact the treatment team if swallowing is difficult.
Can ixazomib citrate affect driving?
Fatigue and dizziness can occur. Do not drive or operate machinery while affected.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.