Breast cancer claims approximately 670,000 lives annually. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, 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 each year, underscoring the importance of early detection and targeted treatment for this deadly disease. 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 approved for use in conjunction with hormone therapy for patients at high risk of cancer recurrence. The FDA stated in an official announcement that ribociclib, when used with an aromatase inhibitor, is approved 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 a co-pack of ribociclib and letrozole for the same indication. Kisqali is a selective cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor that works by targeting proteins CDK4/6, which, when excessively activated, can promote rapid growth and division of cancer cells. By inhibiting these proteins, Kisqali slows down cancer progression. It is administered as an oral pill, taken for three weeks followed by a one-week break, continued for a total of three years. The recommended daily oral dose is 400 mg, which can be taken with or without food.Kisqali Edition: Side Effects

The typical side effects linked to Kisqali medication include low white blood cell count or neutropenia. Neutropenia happens when there is a decrease in neutrophil levels in the bloodstream, which are crucial in battling infections in the body. Additionally, Kisqali may also cause liver-related problems and interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis.

Breast Cancer: Warning Signs to Watch for Early Detection