Kisqali (Ribociclib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Kisqali Used For?
Kisqali is a medication that contains ribociclib and is used to treat specific types of breast cancer, both early and advanced stages.
Primary Uses
Kisqali is primarily used for hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, including early breast cancer and advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
How It Works
Kisqali works by blocking certain enzymes known as cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) that signal cancer cells to grow and multiply, potentially delaying the progression of breast cancer.
Good to know: Kisqali is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Kisqali
Kisqali is taken in cycles to manage treatment effectively.
Dosage Instructions
For early breast cancer, the usual starting dose is 400 mg (2 tablets of 200 mg) daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break. For advanced or metastatic breast cancer, the starting dose is 600 mg (3 tablets of 200 mg) daily for 21 days, also followed by a 7-day break.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose during days 1 to 21, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Tiredness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Hair loss
- Rash
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Allergic reactions
- Severe skin reactions
- Signs of infection (fever, chills)
- Liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Heart issues (chest pain, irregular heartbeat)
Important Warnings
There are specific conditions and situations where Kisqali should not be used.
Who Should Not Take Kisqali
Do not use Kisqali if you have had an allergic reaction to ribociclib, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, soy lecithin, or any ingredients in Kisqali. Avoid Kisqali if you have a heart condition known as QT prolongation.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have liver problems, heart issues, low levels of potassium, magnesium, calcium, or phosphorous, or if you are still having menstrual periods.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Kisqali may harm an unborn baby. Women who can become pregnant should have a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment and use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 21 days after stopping Kisqali. It is unknown if Kisqali is present in breast milk.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Kisqali and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit, grapefruit juice, pomelos, star fruit, and Seville oranges while taking Kisqali as they may affect how the medication is absorbed.
- Ketoconazole
- Itraconazole
- Voriconazole
- Erythromycin
- Clarithromycin
- Azithromycin
- Ritonavir
- Carbamazepine
- Phenytoin
- Amiodarone
- St John's Wort
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol or operating machinery while on Kisqali.
Alcohol
Be careful with alcohol consumption as it may affect how you feel while taking Kisqali.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Kisqali may cause tiredness or dizziness, so be cautious when driving or using machinery.
Storage
Store Kisqali tablets in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C. Keep them out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical help. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Kisqali to work can vary by individual, and your doctor will monitor your progress.
Yes, Kisqali can be taken with or without food, but avoid grapefruit and related fruits.
No, Kisqali is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Kisqali, as sudden discontinuation may affect your treatment.
Be cautious with alcohol, as it may affect how you feel while on Kisqali.
Elderly patients should discuss their health status with their doctor before starting Kisqali.
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.