Let's learn about the drug Verzenio, which is given when breast cancer spreads? (Metastatic Breast Cancer)

When a doctor tells you that breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body, that is, it has become 'metastatic', it is normal to feel a lot of fear and anxiety. However, with the advancement of modern medicine, there are very effective treatments for such cases today. Verzenio is one such drug that brings hope. So today, let's talk briefly about this drug called Verzenio, how it works, and what things to be careful about while using it.

How does Verzenio work inside the body?

Simply put, Verzenio is a drug that belongs to a class of drugs called ``kinase inhibitors.`` Think of it like there are enzymes in our body that act like ``messengers`` that carry information back and forth between cells. These are what we call ``kinases.`` Cancer cells are made up of these special messengers that tell them to divide and grow rapidly.

Verzenio works by blocking the action of messengers called `cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 (CDK4 and CDK6)`, which send signals to cancer cells to grow. To be precise, it blocks those messages halfway through the journey. In this way, when the CDK4 and CDK6 enzymes stop working, the cancer cells lose the signal to divide and grow. As a result , the growth of cancer cells stops or slows down . This also helps to shrink tumors.

What types of breast cancer is Verzenio used for?

This medicine is not given for all types of breast cancer. It is especially used for:

• Hormone receptor (HR)-positive and
• Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative

It is used for a type of breast cancer called metastatic breast cancer. It is also given when the cancer has spread outside the breast to other organs in the body, such as the liver, lungs, or bones.

Sometimes this medicine is given together with other hormonal treatments. However, in cases where the cancer has spread and the disease has not responded to both chemotherapy and hormonal treatments, Verzenio may be given alone . This is all decided by the doctor who is treating you.

How to take Verzenio? What should you be aware of?

Verzenio is a pill. You should be aware of these things when using it.

• You have to take this pill twice a day .
• You can take it before or after meals, but try to take it at about the same time every day .
• The tablet should be swallowed whole . Do not break, crush, or chew it.
• If you have any broken, chipped, or damaged pills, do not take them. Call your doctor right away and tell them about it.
• If you vomit after taking the medicine, skip that dose. Do not take an extra pill . Take the next pill at the scheduled time.

Your doctor will advise you to continue taking this medicine until your cancer is under control or until you experience severe side effects. If you experience some side effects, your doctor may decide to reduce your dose, stop taking it for a while, or stop it completely.

How effective is Verzenio really? (Clinical Trial Results)

This drug has been approved based on the results of several very successful clinical trials. Let's take a quick look at the results from those trials.

How does the doctor monitor the progress of treatment?

Once you start taking the medication, the doctor will monitor you regularly.

• Scans: A scan is usually done about 6 weeks after starting medication to see how the cancer is responding to the medication.
• Blood Tests: This is very important. The levels of cells in your blood, such as white blood cells, neutrophils, and platelets, are regularly checked to make sure the medicine is working safely for your body.

How to manage side effects if they occur?

Side effects are common with cancer medications. The most important thing is to tell your doctor about any changes or discomfort you feel, even if they are minor.

• Regular blood tests: Verzenio can sometimes cause a decrease in white blood cells. This is called ``neutropenia.'' This can lead to serious infections. That's why it's important to get all the blood tests your doctor orders.
• Stomach upset: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common. These can be controlled by eating bland, low-fat foods, and eating small meals rather than large meals. However, if your diarrhea is severe, you should tell your doctor immediately . He or she will give you the necessary advice.
• Other serious side effects: If you experience any symptoms of a blood clot (swelling or bruising in a leg) that affect your lungs, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath, you should also inform your doctor immediately.

Are there any other special things to know?

Yes, there are a few more things.

• Eat grapefruit, not juice: Grapefruit stops the body from breaking down Verzenio. This can cause the levels of the drug in the body to rise unnecessarily, increasing side effects.
• Certain medications: Taking antifungal medications like ketoconazole with this medicine can cause dangerous side effects. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins and supplements) .
• Other medical conditions: If you have other health problems, such as liver disease, your Verzenio dosage may need to be adjusted. Talk to your doctor about your complete health history.

Breast cancer, Verzenio, abemaciclib, metastatic breast cancer, cancer treatment, hormone therapy, CDK4/6 inhibitor