Ribociclib- A breast cancer medication

For conducting targeted biological drug therapy of breast cancer patients, Ribociclib or Kryxana is a highly preferred medicine. It is applicable for both secondary and recurrent HER2 negative breast cancer patients. This anti-cancer kinase inhibitor interferes with the growth and survival of cancer cells within the body and destroys them effectively.

How is Ribociclib given?

This medication will be given in combination with Fulvestrant or aromatase inhibitors like Letrozole. The former is only applicable for treating breast cancer in postmenopausal women, while the latter is only for pre/perimenopausal women. It is a tablet that is swallowed whole with water.

Dosage and Usage

Ribociclib 200mg is the typical daily dose for the completion of the 28-cycle that is usually followed in this case. The patient needs to consume one tablet every 24 hours for three weeks and then rest for 7 days to give the body some time to recover from the side effects. However, the aromatase inhibitor will be continued for 28 days at a stretch.

In case your doctor has prescribed Ribociclib 200 mg with Fulvestrant, take the tablets regularly for 21 days, followed by a week’s rest for the body. Meanwhile, the Fulvestrant injection is given every 2 weeks in the initial stages of the treatment. It is soon reduced to once a month, considering the body’s response due to the therapy has been positive. These are also known as intramuscular injections and are used for ovarian suppression.

Note that if you have missed a dose, it is strictly recommended not to double it. Wait for the next day to resume the normal dose. It must also be mentioned that the dosage will vary according to the stage of cancer and the overall health condition of the patient.

Precautionary measures while taking Ribociclib 

1. It is mandatory for the patient to give a detailed description of all the medicines that the patient is on at the moment before starting this drug therapy. 
2. One is not supposed to take any vaccination or immunization shots without consulting the doctor while being on this medication. 
3. Try to avoid taking vitamin supplements. 
4. Aspirins are also prohibited for breast cancer patients undergoing this drug therapy. 
5. Ribociclib is not advised for women who are pregnant because the medicine can cause harm to the fetus. Similarly, one is also not supposed to breastfeed in this condition as it may bring upon life-threatening consequences on the child. 
6. The risk of catching an infection is quite high during this treatment. Avoid coming in direct contact with people who have contagious infections like cold, flu, and pox. 
7. Since one of the common side effects of Ribociclib is fatigue, it is suggested not to operate heavy machinery or engage in activities that are energy-draining and require constant focus. For instance, the patient must not drive in this condition. 
8. Kryxana 200mg has soy lecithin; therefore, a patient with peanuts or soya allergy should not be taking Ribociclib.
9. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit/pomegranate juice while taking Ribociclib. 

Ribociclib Side Effects

These are some of the most common side effects of Kryxana 200mg and can be dealt with naturally or certain prescribed drugs-

• Low RBC and platelet count leading to increased risks of developing anemia, unusual bleeding or injuries 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Fatigue or extreme tiredness 
• Hair loss
• Loss of appetite
• Dry mouth, mouth sores or ulcers
• Skin rash and itching 
• Diarrhea 

In case of the following side effects, seek medical attention on an emergency basis-

• Blood clots determined by shortness of breath, chest pain and bloody coughs
• Pain and unusual sensation of heat in the thighs or calves
• Body temperature increasing over 37.5 degree Celsius

Developing urinary tract infections are most likely to occur in breast cancer patients who are undergoing this drug therapy.

Conclusion 

Doctors will conduct a series of blood tests and other such medical examinations to determine the current state of health and whether the body is able to deal with the side effects. Usually, blood tests are done every two weeks during the first couple of cycles and before starting each of the upcoming 4 cycles. Note that, Ribociclib is always prescribed alongside hormone therapy. Ribociclib 200 mg price is as high as 19,500 INR. Having proper medical insurance is quite beneficial under these circumstances.

Disclaimer: The afore-mentioned content is only for information purpose. We don’t intend to claim the effectiveness of the medication.