What is ABEMACICLIB used for?

VERZENIO is used to treat certain types of hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, both in early stages and advanced stages.

Can ABEMACICLIB cause diarrhea?

Yes, severe diarrhea is a known side effect of VERZENIO; you should use anti-diarrheal medicine and drink more fluids if it happens.

Is VERZENIO safe during pregnancy?

No, VERZENIO can cause harm to a fetus, so effective birth control should be used during treatment.

What should I do if I have breathing problems while taking ABEMACICLIB?

You should report any new breathing symptoms immediately, as VERZENIO can cause serious lung inflammation or disease.

Do I need to take VERZENIO with food?

No, VERZENIO tablets can be taken either with or without food.

How often will my blood be checked while on ABEMACICLIB?

Your doctor will likely monitor your blood counts every two weeks for the first two months and then monthly.

Can ABEMACICLIB affect my liver?

Yes, VERZENIO can cause increases in liver enzyme levels, so liver function tests are required during treatment.

Are there any medications I should avoid with VERZENIO?

You should avoid ketoconazole and should talk to your doctor about other drugs that affect how your liver processes medicine.

abemaciclib | CAS 1231929-97-7 | UZWDCWONPYILKI

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Kinase inhibitor

ABEMACICLIB (brand name VERZENIO) is a medication used to treat certain types of breast cancer. It works by blocking specific proteins (CDK4 and CDK6) that help cancer cells grow and multiply. It can be taken as a pill by itself or combined with other hormone therapies.

How it worksABEMACICLIB stops the growth of cancer cells by blocking enzymes called CDK4 and CDK6, which are responsible for helping cells move through their growth cycle.

Brand names:VERZENIO

Used for

Adjuvant treatment of HR-positive, HER2-negative, node-positive, early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence (used with hormone therapy).Initial treatment of HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer (used with an aromatase inhibitor).Treatment of HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer that has progressed after endocrine therapy (used with fulvestrant).Treatment of HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer that has progressed after endocrine therapy and previous chemotherapy (used alone).

Conditions

Early breast cancerAdvanced breast cancerMetastatic breast cancer

Class

Kinase InhibitorKinase inhibitorEndocrine systemRespiratory systemGastrointestinal systemHematologic systemHepatic system

How to take

FormsOral tablet

RoutesOral

The dose depends on whether it is used alone or with other medicines. When used with other hormone therapies, the starting dose is usually 150 mg twice daily. When used alone, the starting dose is usually 200 mg twice daily. Tablets can be taken with or without food.

Doses may need to be adjusted or paused based on how well you tolerate the medicine.

Key warnings

·Severe diarrhea can occur; start anti-diarrheal medicine and increase fluids at the first sign of loose stools.
·Lung issues (ILD/pneumonitis) can be serious or fatal; watch for new breathing symptoms.
·Liver function should be monitored regularly.
·Watch for signs of blood clots.
·This drug can cause harm to a fetus; use effective birth control.

Do not use if

·None listed

Side effects

Common

DiarrheaLow white blood cell counts (neutropenia)NauseaStomach painInfectionsFatigueLow red blood cell counts (anemia)Decreased appetiteVomitingHeadacheHair lossLow platelet counts (thrombocytopenia)

Serious

·Severe diarrhea that can lead to dehydration or infection
·Lung problems like interstitial lung disease or pneumonitis (which can be fatal)
·Liver problems (hepatotoxicity)
·Blood clots (venous thromboembolism)
·Low blood cell counts (neutropenia)
·Potential harm to an unborn baby

Seek help if

·New or worsening shortness of breath
·Severe diarrhea
·Signs of blood clots (swelling or pain in legs)
·Yellowing of skin or eyes (liver issues)

Interactions

·Avoid using ketoconazole with VERZENIO.
·Avoid strong or moderate CYP3A inducers.
·If taking strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors, the dose of VERZENIO may need to be reduced.
·Known interactions include KISQALI, COSELA, EXTINA, PAXLOVID (COPACKAGED), and NORVIR.

FoodVERZENIO can be taken with or without food.

Special populations

PregnancyABEMACICLIB can cause harm to a developing baby. It is important to use effective contraception while taking this medication.

PediatricThe safety and effectiveness of VERZENIO in children have not been established.

GeriatricThe drug has been used in older adults, with common side effects including low blood cell counts, diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea.

Talk to your doctor

Monitor

·Blood counts (neutropenia, anemia, etc.)
·Liver function (LFTs)
·Breathing and lung symptoms
·Signs of blood clots
·Diarrhea and hydration levels

Questions to ask

·What are the signs of lung inflammation I should look for?
·How often will my liver and blood counts be tested?
·What should I do if I develop diarrhea?
·Are my other medications safe to take with VERZENIO?

Pharmacokinetics

BioavailabilityThe absolute bioavailability after a single 200 mg dose is 45%.

MetabolismInvolves CYP3A4 pathway.

Practical

StorageStore between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Brief excursions between 15°C to 30°F are allowed.

Ingredients

Allergens

lactose

Inactive

microcrystalline cellulose 102microcrystalline cellulose 101lactose monohydratecroscarmellose sodiumsodium stearyl fumaratesilicon dioxidepolyvinyl alcoholtitanium dioxidepolyethylene glycoltalciron oxide yellowiron oxide red

Educational summary derived from FDA labeling, AI-assisted. Not medical advice — consult a healthcare professional. Updated 2026-04-25.