Abemaciclib:Drug class, Brand name, Uses and Diet recommendations

Abemaciclib is a type of cancer growth blocker that targets the proteins cyclin dependant kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4 and CDK6) on breast cancer cells.

Drug class

Abemaciclib is a targeted cancer drug.

Brand name

VERZENIO®

Uses

Abemaciclib is a kinase inhibitor indicated:

• in combination with endocrine therapy (tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor) for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, node-positive, early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence.

• in combination with an aromatase inhibitor as initial endocrine based therapy for the treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer.

• in combination with fulvestrant for the treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer with disease progression following endocrine therapy.

• as monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with HR positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer with disease progression following endocrine therapy and prior chemotherapy in the metastatic setting.[1]

How does it work?

Abemaciclib blocks proteins known as CDK (cyclin dependent kinase) 4 and 6. When activity of CDK 4 and 6 is increased, there is a loss of cell cycle control that leads to increased cell growth and division. By blocking CDK 4 and 6, abemaciclib disrupts breast cancer cell growth and slows tumor progression.

Side Effects

Side Effects of Verzenio (abemaciclib):

• Diarrhea

• Fatigue or tiredness

• Nausea, vomiting

• Headache

• Hair thinning or hair loss

• Rash

• Cough

• Infections

• Low blood counts

• Decrease in white blood cells that fight infection

• Decrease in red blood cells that deliver oxygen throughout the body

• Decrease in platelets that help blood to clot.

Diet recommendations

• Eat a bland diet that is easy to digest until diarrhea resolves

• BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast

• Do not eat high fiber foods (raw vegetables/fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans)

• Do not have dairy, alcohol, caffeine, spicy and fried foods

Stay Hydrated:

• Drink 8-10 glasses (64-80 ounces) of non-caffeinated, non-carbonated beverages daily

• Gatorade, Pedialyte, or other beverages with electrolytes may be recommended with severe diarrhea

Reference

[1]Mass General Cancer Center