Verzenio (abemaciclib) is a prescription medication used to treat advanced or metastatic breast cancer. Cancer cells grow and move to other organs, this medicine works by stopping the growth of cancer cells. It is a cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitor, meaning it blocks the activity of proteins that control cell growth, which can help slow down the growth of cancer cells.

Verzenio active ingredients and uses:

Verzenio, with the active ingredient Abemaciclib, is an oral medication classified as a CDK4/6 inhibitor. This drug works by blocking cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6, proteins that help regulate cell division. Verzenio is primarily prescribed for HR+ (hormone receptor-positive) and HER2- (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative) breast cancer patients. It is particularly used in cases where breast cancer is advanced or has metastasized (spread to other parts of the body) and typically follows prior endocrine therapy or chemotherapy.

Abemaciclib is given alongside hormonal therapies such as fulvestrant or aromatase inhibitors or used as monotherapy in certain scenarios. Its primary goal is to slow the progression of cancer by interfering with the cancer cells’ ability to multiply.

Substitutes for Verzenio

Several other CDK4/6 inhibitors are available for breast cancer treatment, including:

• Palbociclib (Ibrance)
• Ribociclib (Kisqali)

These drugs share a similar mechanism of action and are also prescribed for HR+ and HER2- breast cancer patients. The choice of drug depends on the patient’s specific condition, prior treatments, and overall health.

Breast Cancer Facts You May Not Know

While breast cancer is more commonly associated with females, although rarely, but men can also develop breast cancer. Although men have lower levels of estrogen, hormonal imbalances, including increased estrogen or decreased testosterone, can lead to the development of breast cancer in males. In fact, about 1% of all breast cancer cases are found in men.

Key Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer:

• High levels of estrogen
• Decreased testosterone
• Genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2)
• Obesity and liver disease

Hormone Therapy for Men with Breast Cancer

In cases of male breast cancer, hormone therapy often involves the use of tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), which helps block estrogen’s effect on breast tissue. Other medications, such as aromatase inhibitors and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, may also be prescribed to lower estrogen production.

While Abemaciclib is primarily prescribed to females, research into its use for male breast cancer is ongoing. Some clinical cases suggest that it may be beneficial for men under certain conditions, but further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.

How is Verzenio Metabolized?

Verzenio is metabolized in the liver, primarily by the CYP3A4 enzyme. Our genetic makeup is unique, so do our speed of metabolizing any drug. In case of Verzenio (Abemaciclib), knowing whether we are rapid, normal, or poor metabolizer of CYP3A4 enzyme can help doctors set the right doses, as a higher dose can even cause trouble to a poor metabolizer and vice versa. Thus, to get the best Verzenio results, it’s vital to get the right Abemaciclib dose. Here is how simple the at home PGx testing is.

Verzenio Administration and Potencies

Abemaciclib is available in oral tablet form with the following potencies:

• 50 mg
• 100 mg
• 150 mg
• 200 mg

The typical dosing regimen is 150 mg twice daily when used in combination with endocrine therapy and 200 mg twice daily when prescribed as monotherapy. However, the dose may be adjusted based on the patient’s tolerance, liver function, and potential drug interactions.

Dose Adjustments for Metabolism Variations

Patients with a high metabolism may process the drug faster, potentially reducing its efficacy. Conversely, individuals with a slow metabolism may experience increased drug levels, heightening the risk of adverse effects. In such cases, doctors closely monitor the patient and adjust the dose accordingly.

An at home PGx testing, requiring only saliva can help your doctor prescribe the right drug and accurate dose. Order a pharmacogenomics testing kit.

Indications for Verzenio

Verzenio is indicated for:

1. Advanced or metastatic HR+ and HER2- breast cancer
2. Patients who have progressed on endocrine therapy (also known as hormonal therapy)
3. Combination therapy with fulvestrant or an aromatase inhibitor

Precautions

Patients should exercise caution and inform their doctor if they are:

• Taking medications that inhibit CYP3A4 (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin), which may increase Abemaciclib levels.
• Suffering from liver or kidney impairment, as it may require dose adjustment.
• Experiencing gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, a common side effect of Abemaciclib.

Additionally, Verzenio may not be suitable for individuals taking medications for heart conditions, infections, or seizures. In such cases, doctors may lower the dose or switch to an alternative therapy.

How to Avoid Breast Cancer

Both women and men can avoid breast cancer by keeping their lifestyles healthy. This includes doing exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, eating healthy, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Preventions particularly for women:

1. Breastfeed: Breast feeding your baby may protect you from breast cancer.
2. Avoid hormone therapy after menopause: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase the risk of breast cancer.
3. Regular self-exams: Women should perform breast self-exams regularly to detect any unusual lumps around their breast or changes in skin color.

Tailored medication is the best medication:

In case you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, talk to your doctor about getting tailored medication with the help of pharmacogenomics testing, also known as PGx testing. This can help your doctor prescribe the most suitable Abemaciclib dose, helping you recover breast cancer in the shortest period possible.

Conclusion

Verzenio (Abemaciclib) plays a critical role in the treatment of HR+ and HER2- advanced breast cancer. Its efficacy depends on proper dosing, careful monitoring, and patient adherence to prescribed regimens. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, early detection, and personalized medication or tailored medication can significantly improve outcomes for breast cancer patients. Use your genetic data (with the help of PGx testing) and get personalized treatments.

Reference:

https://mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/breast-cancer-prevention/art-20044676

Disclaimer: This blog is only for informational purposes. Please consult your doctor before taking any medical action.