Idelalisib
Written By Dr. Sakshi Jain
Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev SharmaLast updated 31 Jul 2026 | 01:11 PM (UTC)
Idelalisib Uses
Idelalisib is used in the treatment of blood cancer (chronic lymphocytic leukemia), follicular lymphoma and Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma.
How Idelalisib works
Idelalisib works by blocking a protein called phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase delta (PI3Kδ), which helps certain cancer cells grow and survive. By blocking this protein, the medicine slows the growth of cancer cells and helps control the progression of the disease.
Common side effects of Idelalisib
Pneumonia, Fever, Tiredness, Rash, Cough, Nausea, Diarrhea
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Expert advice for Idelalisib
- Take Idelalisib exactly as prescribed, preferably at the same times every day, to help maintain consistent medicine levels in your body.
- Attend all scheduled blood tests so your doctor can monitor your liver function and blood cell counts throughout treatment.
- Report persistent diarrhea, cough, difficulty breathing, fever, severe skin rash, or abdominal pain to your doctor immediately, as these may be signs of serious side effects.
- Tell your doctor about all medicines, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, before starting any new treatment to help prevent drug interactions.
- Use effective contraception during treatment if pregnancy is possible, and avoid breastfeeding until 1 month after your last dose.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you notice a severe skin rash, blisters, peeling skin, or mouth sores, especially if accompanied by fever or flu-like symptoms.
Frequently asked questions for Idelalisib
Your doctor will arrange regular blood tests to monitor your liver function and blood cell counts, as Idelalisib can affect the liver and lower certain blood cells. These tests help detect problems early so treatment can be adjusted if needed.
Contact your doctor immediately if you develop severe diarrhea, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, fever, chills, signs of infection, a severe skin rash, or new or worsening abdominal pain. These symptoms may indicate serious side effects that require prompt medical attention.
Idelalisib can increase the risk of serious infections. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to help prevent Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) during treatment and may monitor you for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection if you are at risk.
Yes. It may harm an unborn baby. Women who can become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose. Men with partners who can become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.
You should continue taking Idelalisib until your disease progresses or you develop side effects that require your doctor to stop treatment. Do not stop taking the medicine unless your doctor advises you to do so.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing, signs of a severe allergic reaction, severe skin rash with blistering or peeling, severe abdominal pain, or symptoms of a serious infection such as high fever or chills. These may be signs of serious complications that require urgent treatment.