You or someone close to you may be being treated for breast cancer. At this point, your doctor may have prescribed you a pill called Palbociclib (often known by the brand name Ibrance). So let's talk briefly and honestly about this medication, what it does, how to use it, and what to watch out for.
What kind of medicine is this? (What is Palbociclib?)
Simply put, Palbociclib is a drug that controls the growth of breast cancer cells. There is a special protein in our body that helps cancer cells divide, multiply, and spread. This drug blocks the action of that protein. Then the growth and spread of cancer cells is largely controlled.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
For your safety, it is very important that your doctor is aware of these things before starting Palbociclib, as special care should be taken when using this medicine with these conditions.
- If you currently have an infection such as chickenpox or herpes.
- If you have been previously diagnosed with low levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets in your blood.
- If you have lung or breathing problems (such as asthma).
- If you have any allergies to palbociclib or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you or your partner are trying to get pregnant or if you are already pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
The correct way to use the medicine
This is a pill that you should take with a glass of water. Just like the doctor said, try to take it at the same time every day . This is very important.
Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet. Swallow the tablet whole.
You can take this before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food. Continue taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to stop.
The most important thing is: completely avoid drinking grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you have any suspicion that you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose or vomit after taking the pill, do not take another pill that day. Take the next pill at the usual time the next day.
Can this interact with other medications? (Drug Interactions)
Yes, Palbociclib is a medication that can interact with other medications, some vitamins, and supplements. Therefore, give your doctor a complete list of all the medications you are taking (including medications for other conditions, vitamins, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements).
Some medications, especially those used to treat fungal infections (e.g., ketoconazole), medications used to treat epilepsy (e.g., carbamazepine), and herbal products such as St. John's wort, may interact with this medicine. Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol. This will help your doctor plan the safest treatment for you.
Things to be especially careful about during treatment
- Regular medical monitoring: Your doctor will monitor your condition regularly while you are taking this medication. You will also need to have regular blood tests (blood work) to check the number of cells in your blood.
- Protection from infections: This medicine may slightly reduce your body's immunity. This means that you are more likely to develop infections. If you experience symptoms such as fever, cold, sore throat, or body aches, do not self-medicate and call your doctor immediately. Minimize your visits to places where sick people are.
- Be careful with painkillers: Do not take painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen without consulting your doctor, as these can suppress your fever and make it difficult to tell if you have an infection.
- Watch out for bleeding: There may be a slight increase in the risk of bleeding. Brush your teeth gently. Tell your doctor if you have any unexplained bruising or if you have bleeding that is difficult to stop.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (very important):
- Taking this medicine during pregnancy can cause serious harm to the baby. Therefore, you should make sure that you are not pregnant before starting treatment.
- It is essential to use a highly effective form of birth control during treatment and for 3 weeks after the last dose . Talk to your doctor about this and choose the method that is right for you.
- If your partner is able to get pregnant, it is essential to use a condom during sexual intercourse while you are taking treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.
- Avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for 3 weeks after the last dose.
Side effects that may occur when taking medication
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. But not everyone gets them. Some are serious, so you should tell your doctor right away. Others usually go away over time.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Symptoms that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Difficulty breathing | Dry cough, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat. |
| Symptoms of low red blood cell level | Unusual fatigue, dizziness, headache, difficulty breathing. |
| Abnormal bleeding | Unexplained bruising and bleeding that is difficult to stop. |
| Symptoms that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Stomach ache/diarrhea | Drink plenty of water and fluids. If it persists, tell your doctor . |
| Fatigue | Rest as much as possible. |
| Hair loss | This is a common temporary condition. Hair will grow back after treatment is complete. |
| Nausea | Try eating small, frequent meals, such as ginger tea. |
| Mouth sores | Pain, redness, swelling, or sores in the mouth. |
How to store and dispose of medicine safely?
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets . Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not use expired medicine.
Before throwing expired or unwanted medications in the trash, take the pills out of the packet, mix them with something like used coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter, put them in a bag, seal it well, and throw them in the trash. Never flush them down the toilet.
Take-Home Message
- Palbociclib is a drug that controls the growth and spread of breast cancer cells.
- Swallow the pill whole, at the same time every day, as directed by your doctor.
- Avoid drinking grapefruit or grapefruit juice completely while taking this medicine.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- If you notice fever, signs of infection, unusual bruising or bleeding, seek medical advice immediately.
- Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Use very strict birth control during treatment and for a certain period of time afterward.
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