Verzenio / Yulareb (generic name: abemaciclib) is a targeted cancer medicine used in certain types of hormone receptor–positive (HR+), HER2-negative breast cancer. It is a cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6) inhibitor, which means it blocks specific proteins that help cancer cells grow and divide too quickly. By slowing the growth of these proteins, Verzenio helps control tumor growth and supports longer disease control.
Abemaciclib is approved to be used in adults and teens in combination with hormone therapies like aromatase inhibitors or fulvestrant for early-stage high-risk and advanced or metastatic HR+ breast cancers. It is also approved as monotherapy, meaning it can be used alone in patients whose cancer has come back after standard treatments. Verzenio works by interrupting cancer cell division at various stages of the disease, thereby helping to delay the spread and progression of the disease.
It is included in major treatment guidelines because studies have shown that it significantly extends the time before cancer worsens, compared to hormone therapy alone. Verzenio is not used for HER2-positive or triple-negative breast cancer.
Caution
Verzenio should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, due to potential harm to the fetus or baby. If preganacy occurs while already taking Verzenio, consult with a healthcare provider immediately.
Dosage
It is important to follow the dosage instructions printed on the label of the box. Check with a doctor or pharmacist if there are any doubts regarding the proper dosage and treatment regimen.
Verzenio is taken orally twice daily, and food is not required. When used with hormone therapy, the usual dose is 150 mg twice a day. When used as monotherapy, the recommended dose is 200 mg twice daily. Based on how patients react to the medicine, the dose may be lowered to 100 mg or 50 mg twice daily.
If a dose is missed, the patient should take it as soon as this is realized, unless it’s too close to the next scheduled dose, in which case it should be skipped. Double dosing to make up for a missed dose must be avoided. If vomiting occurs shortly after a dose, wait for the next regular dose. An extra dose is not needed.
Storage
Verzenio tablets should be kept at room temperature (20 –25 °C / 68–77 °F) in their original container, protecting them from moisture and light. Avoid freezing or refrigeration. The bottle needs to stay tightly closed when not in use.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.Â
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
Most people who use Verzenio do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include diarrhea, tiredness, abdominal pain, nausea, and headaches. Diarrhea usually appears early and should be treated promptly with fluids and medicine. Consulting a doctor is essential.
Allergic reactions, though rare, are possible. Patients expereiencing symptoms such as fever, difficulty breathing, yellowing of eyes, or severe stomach upset should seek medical attention promptly.
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Verzenio is used to treat hormone receptor–positive (HR+), HER2-negative breast cancer. In early-stage, high-risk cases, it is used after initial treatments like surgery and hormone therapy to reduce the chance that cancer will return. Common signs include breast lumps, changes in breast shape, and swollen lymph nodes.
For advanced or metastatic breast cancer, Verzenio is used alongside hormone treatments to slow the spread of cancer cells to places like the bones, liver, and lungs. Symptoms of the conditions include bone pain, fatigue, and weight loss.
Verzenio also works as stand-alone therapy for patients whose disease has returned after hormone therapy and chemotherapy. Doctors choose this option when other treatments stop working and lab tests show ongoing hormone sensitivity.