Has your doctor prescribed you a drug called Abemaciclib as a treatment for breast cancer? It's normal for things to come to mind at a time like this. "What drug is this?", "What will happen to this?", "What should I be concerned about?" You probably have a lot of questions. Don't worry. Today, we'll talk about everything you need to know about this drug called Abemaciclib, as simple as talking to a friend.
What exactly is Abemaciclib?
Simply put, Abemaciclib is a type of drug that stops the growth of cancer cells. It is also available on the market under the brand name Verzenio . This drug targets certain proteins in cancer cells, controlling the division and growth of those cells. It is used to treat certain types of breast cancer in particular.
Because this is a targeted therapy, it may have a relatively low impact on healthy cells, like regular chemotherapy. However, like all medications, there are some things we need to be aware of.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Your doctor will need to know your complete health history before prescribing this medicine. So, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor. Don't hide anything.
- Blood clotting problems: If you have a tendency or history of blood clotting.
- If you have frequent diarrhea: This medicine can cause diarrhea, so it is important if you already have such a condition.
- Any infection: If you have any infectious condition such as fever or cold.
- Kidney disease: If there is any problem with the functioning of the kidneys.
- Liver disease: This is very important because this medication is mainly eliminated from the body through the liver. Therefore, if you have liver disease, your dosage may need to be adjusted.
- Low white blood cell count: If your blood tests show a low white blood cell count.
- Lung disease: If you have difficulty breathing or other lung-related diseases.
- If you are trying to get pregnant or are pregnant: You should avoid getting pregnant while taking this medicine and for 3 weeks after stopping it, as it may cause serious harm to the unborn baby.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: You should avoid breastfeeding your baby while taking the medication and for 3 weeks after stopping.
- If you have any allergies to other medicines, foods, or substances: Tell your doctor if you have any allergies to abemaciclib or any other substances.
How exactly do I use this pill?
To get the most out of a medication, it is very important to use it as directed.
- Take it on time: Get in the habit of taking your medicine at the same time every day. Make this a part of your daily routine.
- Swallow the tablet whole: Never break, crush, or chew the tablet. These are specially formulated tablets. Therefore, swallow them whole with a little water.
- Before or after meals: This medicine can be taken before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset or nausea, it is best to take it with food.
- Do not change the dosage: If you experience side effects, your doctor may change your dosage or tell you to stop taking the medicine for a while. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the medicine on your own. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
- Do not take with grapefruit: Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it may affect the effectiveness of the medication.
Important: If you miss a dose, skip it. Take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two pills at once to make up for a missed dose.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Let's be aware of side effects.
Like all medications, this one can have side effects. But not everyone gets them. Some side effects are serious, and you should tell your doctor right away if they occur. Some are not so serious, but you should tell your doctor if they persist.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Side effect | Symptoms you are experiencing |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Blood Clot | Chest pain, difficulty breathing, leg pain, swelling, or warmth. |
| Liver Injury | Dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, pain in the upper right part of the stomach, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue. |
| Stroke | Vision changes, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding, sudden headache, numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg. |
| Serious infections | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, pain when urinating. |
| Difficulty breathing/coughing | Coughing or difficulty breathing for no reason. |
| Things to tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | This is a common side effect. If it is severe or lasts more than 2 days, tell your doctor . |
| Nausea and vomiting | This can be reduced by taking the medicine with food. |
| Stomach pain | A little pain. |
| Appetite | Loss of appetite. |
| Headache | General headache. |
Other things to be careful about while taking the medicine
- Protect yourself from infections: This medicine may lower your body's immunity a little. Therefore, reduce your visits to places where sick people are. If you experience symptoms like fever or cold, do not self-medicate and talk to your doctor.
- Blood tests: Your doctor will likely order regular blood tests while you are taking this medicine. These tests will check things like your liver function and blood cell counts. Don't skip these tests.
- Other medications: Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Some medications (e.g., antifungals (ketoconazole), some antibiotics) may interact with this medication.
- Be careful when brushing your teeth: Use a soft toothbrush when brushing and flossing, as the risk of bleeding may be slightly increased. If you see a dentist, tell them that you are taking this medicine.
- Fertility: This medication may affect male fertility. If you have any concerns about this, talk to your doctor before starting treatment.
Take-Home Message
- Abemaciclib is a targeted therapy that controls the growth of cancer cells. Swallow the tablet whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing .
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and other medications you are taking , especially liver disease.
- Avoid eating grapefruit and drinking its juice while taking this medicine.
- Seek immediate medical attention if serious side effects (e.g., chest pain, difficulty breathing, yellowing of the eyes, fever) occur.
- Avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding completely while taking the medicine and for 3 weeks after stopping.
- If you have any concerns or doubts, always discuss them with your doctor. Don't make decisions based on guesswork.
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