Copanlisib is a cancer medicine given by IV infusion. It is a PI3K inhibitor used in adults for certain slow-growing lymphomas after other treatments. In the U.S., the brand Aliqopa has been discontinued, but information here may still help you understand this drug.
Brand Name(s)
- Aliqopa (US) [DSC] — brand discontinued
- Generic name: copanlisib
Warning(s)
- Serious infections can happen, including reactivation of cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP). Watch for fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, mouth sores, burning with urination, or wounds that do not heal.
- High blood sugar may occur, even if you never had diabetes. You may feel very thirsty or hungry, urinate more often, feel sleepy, or notice fruity-smelling breath.
- High blood pressure can happen. Dizziness, severe headaches, or vision changes are warning signs.
- Bleeding problems may occur. Watch for black or bloody stools, blood in urine, coughing or vomiting blood, easy bruising, or bleeding you cannot stop.
- Lung/breathing problems can occur, with cough, fever, or shortness of breath.
- Low phosphate (electrolyte change) may cause weakness, muscle pain, trouble swallowing, mood changes, or vision changes.
- Nerve symptoms like burning, numbness, or tingling can happen.
- Allergic or infusion reactions are possible. Tell your care team right away if you have rash, hives, wheezing, chest tightness, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.
- Drug and food interactions: Many medicines interact with copanlisib (including some for HIV, infections/antifungals, and seizures). Always have your care team review all prescriptions, OTC drugs, and supplements. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.
- Pregnancy and birth control: This drug may harm an unborn baby. A pregnancy test is done before starting. Use birth control during treatment and for some time after the last dose. Ask your doctor how long.
- Breastfeeding: Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose.
- Older adults (65+): You may have a higher chance of side effects.
- Your care team may check blood counts, blood sugar, blood pressure, and triglycerides during treatment.
Kind of Cancers It Is Used For (not a complete list)
- Certain indolent (slow-growing) non-Hodgkin lymphomas, such as follicular lymphoma, that have come back or did not respond after other treatments.
Copanlisib is given as an infusion into a vein in a clinic or infusion center.
Mechanism of Action
- Copanlisib blocks enzymes called phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3K), mainly the alpha and delta types.
- These enzymes send signals that help cancer cells grow and survive. By blocking them, copanlisib can slow or stop cancer cell growth.
- Because PI3K also affects immune cells and metabolism, this medicine can raise blood sugar, blood pressure, and infection risk.
Common Side Effects
- Diarrhea, upset stomach, or vomiting
- Tiredness or weakness
- Mouth irritation or mouth sores
- Cold-like symptoms (stuffy or runny nose, cough)
- High blood sugar
- High blood pressure
- High triglycerides
- Low phosphate levels
Not all side effects are listed here. Tell your care team about any symptoms that bother you or do not go away.
Last reviewed: 2025-12-17
