Uses of Palbociclib

Palbociclib is used in the management of metastatic breast cancer (hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative).

Therapeutic Category

Palbociclib: Anticancer agents

How Palbociclib works

Palbociclib blocks the actions of certain proteins (cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6) within the body that causes abnormal cell growth and division. As a result, it slows down growth of cancer cells and delay the advancement of the cancer.

Common side effects of Palbociclib

• increased infections, fever
• drop in CBC count (RBC, WBC, and blood platelets)
• tiredness, weakness, decreased appetite
• inflammation of the mouth and lips, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
• skin rash
• hair loss
• skin dryness
• blurred vision, increased tearing, dry eye
• altered taste
• nosebleed

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• signs of serious blood disorder (such as fever, chills, weakness, shortness of breath, bleeding, or easy bruising)
• inflammation of the lungs (causing difficulty in breathing, dry cough, or chest pain)

Health Tips for Palbociclib

• Take Palbociclib as advised by your physician. It is preferably taken with meals. Strictly follow the dosing schedule as instructed by your doctor to achieve better results
• Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking Palbociclib as it may increase the risk of side effects
• Palbociclib may cause a drop in the number of white blood cells in the body and may weaken your immune system. To avoid this, your doctor will regularly monitor your blood counts as a precaution. However, inform your doctor if you experience any signs of infection such as fever
• Palbociclib may cause diarrhoea in some individuals. If you experience diarrhea, hydrate yourself by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or fruit juices. Consuming ORS can also be beneficial. Do not self-treat diarrhea on your own
• Palbociclib may decrease fertility in men. Therefore, men may consider sperm preservation before taking this medicine. Consult your doctor regarding any further queries
• Before taking Palbociclib, inform your doctor if you have any liver, lung, heart, or kidney problems
• Palbociclib should not be taken by women who are pregnant, think that they may be pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding
• Both men and women undergoing therapy with Palbociclib should use a suitable contraceptive method to avoid pregnancy. These methods should be followed during therapy with this medicine and should be continued for at least 3 weeks in women and for at least 14 weeks in men even after withdrawal of therapy