Kisqali
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: Kisqali
Description
Kisqali – A Comprehensive Guide Kisqali, also known by its generic name ribociclib, is a drug used in combination with other medications to treat hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer. It works by blocking the activity of specific proteins (CDK4/6) that play a role in the growth and division of cancer cells. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Kisqali – including its uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options. Uses of Kisqali: Kisqali is used to treat HR+/HER2- advanced or metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is usually prescribed in combination with other drugs such as letrozole or fulvestrant. It is not meant for use in men or premenopausal women. Dosage of Kisqali: The dosage of Kisqali can vary depending on the patient’s condition, medical history, and response to treatment. Usually, Kisqali is taken orally once daily for 21 consecutive days followed by a 7-day break. The recommended starting dose is 600 mg/day. The drug is available in 200 mg, 400 mg, and 600 mg tablets. Demographic: Kisqali is approved for use in postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced or metastatic breast cancer. It is not intended for use in men or premenopausal women. Side Effects of Kisqali: Like all medications, Kisqali comes with possible side effects. Some of the common side effects of Kisqali include: - Nausea - Vomiting - Fatigue - Diarrhea - Headache - Decreased appetite - Hair loss More serious side effects of Kisqali include: - Liver problems - Lung problems - Low white blood cell count - QT prolongation - Blood clots - Fertility problems Interactions: Kisqali may interact with other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications that may interact with Kisqali include: - Rifampin - Ketoconazole - St. John’s Wort - Certain antibiotics and antifungal medications It’s important to inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid possible interactions. Generic options: Kisqali is only available in brand-name form. No generic version of Kisqali is currently available on the market. Conclusion: Kisqali is a medication used in combination therapy to treat HR+/HER2- advanced or metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is taken orally once daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break. Like all medications, Kisqali comes with potential side effects and may interact with other medications. There is no generic version of Kisqali currently available. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if Kisqali is right for you. Medical Sources & References: 1. Use of Ribociclib in Breast Cancer: Clinical Considerations. Clin Cancer Drugs. 2019 Sep. 2. Kisqali (ribociclib) prescribing information. Switzerland: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2021 3. FDA Approves Kisqali® (ribociclib) for the Treatment of Pre- and Perimenopausal Women with HR+/HER2- Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer in Combination with Tamoxifen or an Aromatase Inhibitor 4. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/fda-ribociclib 5. Gan Liping, Ji Bo, Li Jiting, et al. Ribociclib plus Endocrine Therapy for Hormone-receptor Positive, HER2-negative Advanced Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Breast Cancer. 2020 Feb.
Faq for Kisqali
- Kisqali is used to treat advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is specifically used in combination with an aromatase inhibitor to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
- Kisqali works by targeting and blocking the action of certain proteins called cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK 4/6), which play a critical role in cell growth. By inhibiting CDK 4/6, Kisqali slows down the division of cancer cells and helps halt the progression of breast cancer.
- The common side effects of Kisqali include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, hair loss, headache, joint and muscle pain, decreased appetite, and low white blood cell count. It is important to consult your doctor if you experience any persistent or severe side effects.
- Before using Kisqali, inform your doctor about any allergies, medical conditions, or medications you are taking. Kisqali may interact with certain medications, so it is important to discuss your full medical history with your doctor. It is recommended to use effective contraception during treatment with Kisqali, as it may harm an unborn baby.
- Kisqali is not a cure for breast cancer, but it is an effective treatment that can significantly slow down the progression of advanced breast cancer. It helps improve progression-free survival, delaying the growth and spread of cancer cells.
- Kisqali is taken orally as a tablet once daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break. It is usually prescribed in combination with an aromatase inhibitor. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and schedule of Kisqali.
- Kisqali may interact with certain medications, including strong CYP3A inhibitors, certain antifungal drugs, and certain antibiotics. Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, to avoid any potential interactions.
- The duration of Kisqali treatment can vary depending on individual response and the progression of breast cancer. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your specific circumstances. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and stay on the prescribed treatment plan.
- Yes, hair loss is one of the possible side effects of Kisqali. However, it doesn't occur in all patients, and the extent of hair loss can vary. If you experience significant hair loss, it is advisable to discuss it with your doctor for further guidance.
Kisqali is used to treat hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
Kisqali inhibits the activity of certain proteins called cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) 4 and 6, which are involved in cell division and growth. By blocking these proteins, Kisqali slows down the proliferation of cancer cells.
The common side effects of Kisqali include neutropenia (low white blood cell count), leukopenia (low white blood cell count), fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, hair loss, vomiting, constipation, headache, and back pain.
Kisqali is usually taken once daily with food. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day and to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare professional.
Kisqali may cause harm to the fetus, so it should not be used during pregnancy. It is advised to avoid breastfeeding while taking Kisqali and for at least 21 days after the last dose.
Yes, Kisqali can interact with certain medications, including strong CYP3A inhibitors, strong CYP3A inducers, and drugs that prolong the QT interval. It is important to inform the doctor about all the medications being taken.
The duration of Kisqali treatment will depend on several factors, including the individual's response to the medication and the overall treatment plan determined by the healthcare provider. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions regarding the duration of treatment.