Breast cancer causes approximately 670,000 deaths each year. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer was the most prevalent cancer among women in 157 out of 185 countries in 2022. More than 2 million women receive a breast cancer diagnosis annually, underscoring the importance of early detection and the development of drugs that target cancer cells. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Kisqali, also known as ribociclib, for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer. This drug is to be used in conjunction with hormone therapy and is beneficial for patients concerned about cancer recurrence. The FDA has approved ribociclib 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 has also granted approval for the ribociclib and letrozole co-pack for the same indication. Kisqali, a selective cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor manufactured by Novartis, works by targeting proteins CDK4/6, which, when overactive, can promote rapid growth and division of cancer cells. Administered in the form of an oral pill, Kisqali is recommended for a three-week cycle followed by a one-week break, to be continued for three years, and can be taken with or without food. The daily prescribed oral dose is 400 mg.Kisqali Edition: Side Effects

The typical side effects linked to the medication Kisqali include reduced white blood cell count or neutropenia. Neutropenia arises when there is a decrease in neutrophil levels in the bloodstream, which are crucial for combating infections. Another potential side effect of Kisqali is liver-related complications and interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis.

Breast Cancer: Symptoms of the disease that should never be overlooked