Abemaciclib
Breast Neoplasms
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Kinase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Abemaciclib
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Click HereSummary
Abemaciclib is used to treat hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. It can be used in both early and advanced stages of the disease. It's also used for advanced breast cancer that has progressed after prior treatments.
Abemaciclib works by inhibiting proteins called cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6. These proteins are crucial for cell division. By blocking these proteins, Abemaciclib slows or stops the growth of cancer cells.
Abemaciclib is typically prescribed for adults. The recommended dose is 150 mg taken orally twice daily. It can be used in combination with other therapies.
Common side effects of Abemaciclib include diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and neutropenia. Serious adverse effects can include severe diarrhea, hepatotoxicity, and venous thromboembolism.
Abemaciclib can cause severe diarrhea, neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, and venous thromboembolism. It's contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. It's also advised to avoid strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers.
Indications and Purpose
What is Abemaciclib used for?
Abemaciclib is indicated for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. It is used in combination with other therapies for early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence, and for advanced or metastatic breast cancer. It can also be used as monotherapy for advanced breast cancer that has progressed after prior treatments.
How does Abemaciclib work?
Abemaciclib works by inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 (CDK4 and CDK6), which are enzymes that promote cell division. By blocking these enzymes, Abemaciclib prevents cancer cells from progressing through the cell cycle, thereby slowing or stopping their growth and proliferation.
Is Abemaciclib effective?
Abemaciclib has been shown to be effective in clinical trials for treating hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. In studies, it significantly improved progression-free survival when used in combination with other therapies, such as aromatase inhibitors or fulvestrant, compared to placebo. It also showed effectiveness as a monotherapy in patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
How does one know if Abemaciclib is working?
The benefit of Abemaciclib is evaluated through regular medical check-ups and laboratory tests. These may include blood tests to monitor blood cell counts and liver function, as well as imaging tests to assess the progression of cancer. Patients should keep all appointments with their healthcare provider to ensure the medication is working effectively.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Abemaciclib?
The usual daily dose of Abemaciclib for adults is 150 mg taken orally twice daily when used in combination with other therapies, and 200 mg twice daily when used as monotherapy. There is no established dose for children as the safety and effectiveness of Abemaciclib in pediatric patients have not been established.
How do I take Abemaciclib?
Abemaciclib should be taken orally twice daily, with or without food. It is important to take it at the same times every day. Patients should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it can increase the levels of Abemaciclib in the blood.
For how long do I take Abemaciclib?
For early breast cancer, Abemaciclib is typically taken continuously for two years or until disease recurrence or unacceptable toxicity occurs. For advanced or metastatic breast cancer, it is taken continuously as long as the patient is deriving clinical benefit or until unacceptable toxicity occurs.
How long does it take for Abemaciclib to start working?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
How should I store Abemaciclib?
Abemaciclib should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). It should be kept in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or areas with excess heat and moisture.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Abemaciclib?
Important warnings for Abemaciclib include the risk of severe diarrhea, neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, and venous thromboembolism. Patients should be monitored for signs of these conditions. Abemaciclib is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. It should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment.
Can I take Abemaciclib with other prescription drugs?
Abemaciclib interacts with strong CYP3A inhibitors, which can increase its exposure and toxicity. Patients should avoid using ketoconazole and other strong CYP3A inhibitors. Moderate CYP3A inhibitors may also require dose adjustments. Additionally, grapefruit products should be avoided as they can increase Abemaciclib levels in the blood.
Can I take Abemaciclib with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Abemaciclib be taken safely while pregnant?
Abemaciclib can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose. If a patient becomes pregnant while taking Abemaciclib, they should inform their healthcare provider immediately. There is no strong evidence from human studies, but animal studies have shown teratogenic effects.
Can Abemaciclib be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Women are advised not to breastfeed during treatment with Abemaciclib and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants. It is unknown if Abemaciclib is excreted in human milk.
Is Abemaciclib safe for the elderly?
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of Abemaciclib were observed between elderly patients and younger patients. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to certain side effects, such as neutropenia and diarrhea. It is important for elderly patients to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider during treatment.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Abemaciclib?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Abemaciclib?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.