Verzenio

Verzenio is an oral targeted therapy used to treat hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative breast cancer. It works by inhibiting CDK4 and CDK6 — proteins that promote cancer cell growth — and is typically used in combination with hormonal therapy or as monotherapy in advanced or metastatic cases.

Benefits

• Slows the progression of HR+/HER2− breast cancer by blocking key proteins involved in cell division.
• Can be used with endocrine therapy (like fulvestrant or aromatase inhibitors) or alone.
• Shown to improve progression-free survival in advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
• Suitable for both men and women with advanced-stage disease.
• Oral medication allows for convenient at-home treatment.

Dosage

• The usual dose is 150 mg to 200 mg taken twice daily, depending on the treatment combination.
• Doses may be adjusted based on side effects or lab results.
• Should be taken at the same times every day, with or without food.
• Tablets must be swallowed whole — do not crush or chew.

Warnings and Precautions

• Can cause diarrhea, which may lead to dehydration — prompt treatment is important.
• May lower white blood cell counts, increasing the risk of infection — blood tests are required.
• Risk of blood clots and lung inflammation — report symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Can affect liver function — liver tests should be done regularly.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Usage Instructions

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, twice a day.
• Swallow each tablet whole with water.
• If a dose is missed by more than 6 hours or vomiting occurs, skip that dose and take the next one at the usual time.
• Do not take two doses at the same time.
• Continue taking unless instructed to stop by your healthcare provider.

Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C).
• Keep in the original packaging, away from moisture and heat.
• Do not remove tablets from the bottle until ready to use.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Common Side Effects

• Mild to moderate effects: diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, hair thinning, and low white blood cell counts.
• Serious (seek medical attention): signs of infection (fever, chills), blood clots (leg swelling, chest pain), liver issues (yellowing of skin or eyes), or difficulty breathing.