Kisqali ^*

Kisqali is a targeted cancer drug used to treat a specific type of breast cancer in adults. It is prescribed for advanced or metastatic breast cancer that is hormone receptor (HR)-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative. Kisqali helps to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells and is usually given in combination with another hormone therapy, such as an aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant.

Kisqali is taken orally as tablets, once per day, at about the same time each day. The usual regimen involves taking the tablets for 21 days in a row, followed by a 7-day break where you do not take the medication. This completes a 28-day cycle. It is important to swallow the tablets whole and not to chew, crush, or split them before swallowing. Always follow your oncologist's specific instructions.

Yes, Kisqali tablets can be taken either with or without food. Taking it with a meal does not significantly affect how the medication is absorbed by your body. If you experience nausea, taking Kisqali with a small meal or snack may help to reduce this side effect. Consistency is key, so try to take it in a similar manner each day as part of your routine.

If you miss a dose of Kisqali, you should skip the missed dose for that day. Simply wait and take your next scheduled dose at the regular time on the following day. Do not take two doses at the same time or an extra dose to make up for the one you missed. This could increase your risk of experiencing serious side effects. If you vomit after taking a dose, do not take another one.

Kisqali can cause hair to thin or fall out, which is a side effect known as alopecia. While this is one of the more common side effects reported by patients taking the medication, it does not happen to everyone. The extent of hair loss can vary from mild thinning to more significant loss. This effect is usually temporary, and hair typically begins to grow back after the treatment cycle is adjusted or completed.

Kisqali should be stored in its original packaging at room temperature, below 86°F (30°C). Keep the medication in a dry place away from moisture and direct heat. It is very important to store Kisqali in a location that is safely out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use any tablets that have expired or if the packaging appears damaged before you open it.

You should not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Kisqali. Grapefruit can interfere with how your body metabolizes the medication, leading to higher levels of the drug in your bloodstream. This significantly increases your risk of developing serious side effects, such as heart and liver problems. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist about any other foods or supplements to avoid during your treatment.

Kisqali can cause harm to an unborn baby, so it is not safe to become pregnant during treatment. Women who are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control while taking Kisqali and for at least three weeks after the final dose. Your doctor will likely require a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment. You should discuss effective contraception methods for you and your partner with your healthcare provider.

Yes, Kisqali is approved for use in men for treating HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer. When prescribed for men, it is given in combination with a medication called fulvestrant. The dosage and treatment cycle are generally the same for men as they are for postmenopausal women. Men with this specific type of breast cancer should consult an oncologist to see if this combination therapy is right for them.

Before you start Kisqali, your doctor will order several important tests to ensure it is safe for you. These typically include blood tests to check your liver function and your blood cell counts. Your doctor will also perform an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to check your heart's electrical activity. These tests will be repeated regularly throughout your treatment to monitor for potential side effects, such as liver inflammation or heart rhythm changes.

Kisqali is not considered a cure for breast cancer, but it is a highly effective treatment for managing it. For patients with advanced or metastatic HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, Kisqali can significantly slow down the progression of the disease and extend the time before the cancer worsens. The goal of the therapy is to control cancer growth, manage symptoms, and help patients maintain a good quality of life for as long as possible.

You will know Kisqali is working based on regular evaluations from your oncologist. Your doctor will use a combination of methods to monitor your progress. These include imaging scans like CT, PET, or bone scans to see if tumors are shrinking or stable. They will also monitor tumor markers in your blood and assess your overall symptoms and how you are feeling. These regular check-ups determine the effectiveness of the treatment.