What type of drug is Verzenio?

Verzenio (abemaciclib) is a small molecule drug and kinase inhibitor used in the treatment of both early breast cancer, and advanced or metastatic (cancer that has spread) breast cancer. Verzenio is used to treat both men and women. It works as an ATP-competitive inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 (CDK4 and CDK6), which play a key role in cancer cell growth.

Uses of Verzenio

Verzenio is approved for the treatment of:

1. Early breast cancer:

• For patients at high risk of it coming back who have hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, node-positive cancer.
• Used in combination with endocrine therapy (tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor).

2. Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer

• First-line therapy: In combination with an aromatase inhibitor for HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer that has worsened or spread.
• After endocrine therapy failure: In combination with fulvestrant (Faslodex) for HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer that has progressed.
• Monotherapy: For HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer that has progressed after both endocrine therapy and prior chemotherapy.

Related questions

• How long do you take Verzenio for?
• Is Verzenio better than Ibrance?
• Can you take Verzenio after Ibrance fails?

Administration

Verzenio comes as an oral tablet that is taken with or without food. It is usually taken by mouth twice a day, but dose interruptions or reductions may be required at times. This medication comes in the following doses:

• 50 mg
• 100 mg
• 150 mg
• 200 mg

The dose depends on your condition and how well you tolerate the medication.

Summary

Verzenio helps slow the progression of breast cancer by inhibiting key enzymes involved in tumor growth. Consult your healthcare provider for specific treatment recommendations.