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Kisqali (Ribociclib succinate) Information

Kisqali, which contains the active ingredient ribociclib succinate, is a targeted therapy medication classified as a CDK4/6 inhibitor. It is primarily used to treat adults with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer. Kisqali is prescribed in combination with hormone therapy, either an aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant, for patients with early-stage cancer at high risk of recurrence, or those with advanced or metastatic disease. By pairing with hormone treatments, Kisqali significantly slows the progression of the disease compared to hormone therapy alone.

The mechanism of action involves blocking two specific proteins, cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 (CDK4/6). In healthy cells, these proteins help manage the cycle of growth and division. However, in certain breast cancers, they become overactive, causing cancer cells to multiply rapidly. By inhibiting these enzymes, Kisqali "locks" cancer cells into a resting phase, preventing them from dividing and effectively shrinking or halting tumor growth.

Kisqali Side Effects

Kisqali is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may occur as your body interacts with the medication. Commonly reported effects include fatigue, nausea, headache, diarrhea, constipation, thinning hair (alopecia), and a mild skin rash. Because Kisqali can lower blood cell counts, many patients also experience increased susceptibility to infections or mild anemia.

More serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek help if you experience:
• Heart Rhythm Changes (QT Prolongation): Feeling dizzy, fainting, or experiencing a racing, pounding, or irregular heartbeat.
• Liver Toxicity: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark or tea-colored urine, or pain in the upper right side of the stomach.
• Low White Blood Cell Counts (Neutropenia): Fever, chills, or any signs of infection (this is very common and requires regular blood monitoring).
• Lung Inflammation (Pneumonitis): New or worsening cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
• Severe Skin Reactions: A painful rash that spreads and blisters, or peeling skin (which may indicate conditions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome).

Kisqali Precautions

Do not use Kisqali if you have a known allergy to ribociclib, peanuts, or soya (as the tablets contain soya lecithin). Before starting treatment, your doctor must perform an Electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood tests to check your heart rhythm and electrolyte levels (potassium, calcium, magnesium). Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, long QT syndrome, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take. Kisqali has many significant drug interactions. It should not be taken with tamoxifen, certain antibiotics, or antifungal medications, as these can dangerously affect heart rhythm. Avoid St. John's Wort and grapefruit products, as they can interfere with how your body processes the drug.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Kisqali can cause serious harm or death to a developing fetus. Avoid using this medicine during pregnancy. Women of reproductive potential must have a negative pregnancy test before starting and use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the final dose. Do not breastfeed during treatment or for at least 3 weeks after the last dose.

Take Kisqali exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Kisqali is taken in cycles, typically once daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day rest period to allow blood counts to recover. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush, chew, or break them. If you vomit after taking a dose, do not take an extra one. Wait until your next scheduled dose. Store the tablets in their original blister pack at room temperature.

Do I need a prescription to order Kisqali?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Kisqali.