Breast cancer claims the lives of approximately 670,000 individuals each year. According to data from the World Health Organisation (WHO), breast cancer was the most prevalent cancer among women in 157 out of 185 countries in 2022. Each year, over 2 million women receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Early detection of this lethal disease and the development of drugs that target cancerous cells are crucial. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of Kisqali, also known as ribociclib, for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer. This drug, when used in conjunction with hormone therapy, has been approved for early-stage breast cancer patients. This approval will be beneficial for patients concerned about cancer recurrence.
"The FDA approved ribociclib (Kisqali, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation) in combination with an aromatase inhibitor for the adjuvant treatment of adults with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative stage II and III early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence. The FDA also approved the Kisqali Femara Co-Pack for the same indication," stated the US FDA in an official communication.
Kisqali, a selective cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, works by targeting proteins known as cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6), which, when overly active, can promote rapid growth and division of cancer cells. By targeting CDK4/6 with precision, Kisqali may help prevent cancer cells from replicating uncontrollably.
Kisqali will be administered orally as a pill regimen for three weeks followed by a one-week break, to be continued for three years. It can be taken with or without food, with a recommended daily oral dose of 400 mg.Editor's note: Side effects of KisqaliThe typical side effects of Kisqali medication include a low white blood cell count, known as neutropenia. Neutropenia is characterized by reduced levels of neutrophils in the blood, which are crucial for fighting infections in the body. Additionally, Kisqali may also lead to liver-related problems and interstitial lung disease or pneumonitis.Breast Cancer: Warning signs of the disease that should not be overlooked
