Palbociclib is an oral targeted cancer therapy used in the treatment of HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer. It is a CDK4/6 inhibitor that works by blocking proteins in cancer cells that are responsible for cell division, thus slowing or stopping tumor growth. Palbociclib is typically used in combination with hormone therapy such as letrozole or fulvestrant.

• Effective for HR+/HER2- breast cancer in advanced or metastatic stages

• Improves progression-free survival when combined with hormonal therapies

• Slows cancer cell proliferation by inhibiting CDK4 and CDK6 enzymes

• Oral administration makes treatment more convenient

• Can be used in postmenopausal women or men as part of a combination regimen

• Take orally once daily with food

• The usual regimen is 21 days of active dosing, followed by 7 days off (a 28-day cycle)

• Swallow the capsule whole; do not open, crush, or chew

• Take at the same time each day for best results

• If a dose is missed or vomited, do not take an additional dose—resume the normal schedule

• Strength: 125 mg

• Form: Oral capsule

• Standard Schedule: 125 mg once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 days off

• Combination Use: Often used with letrozole or fulvestrant in HR+/HER2- breast cancer treatment

• Dose adjustments may be necessary for toxicity management or hepatic impairment

• Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Palbociclib or any of its components

• Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Regular monitoring of complete blood counts (CBC) is essential due to risk of neutropenia

• Avoid strong CYP3A inhibitors or inducers which may affect drug levels

• Practice effective contraception during treatment and for several weeks afterward

Common Side Effects:

• Neutropenia (low white blood cell count)

• Fatigue

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Infections

• Hair thinning or loss

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe neutropenia and risk of febrile neutropenia

• Pulmonary embolism

• Liver enzyme elevations

• Increased risk of infection

• Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F)

• Protect from moisture and heat

• Keep in the original packaging until ready to use

• Keep out of reach of children and pets

• Do not use after the expiry date

Q1. What is Palbociclib used for?
A: It is used to treat hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer in advanced or metastatic stages.

Q2. Can Palbociclib be used alone?
A: No, it is usually prescribed in combination with hormone therapies like letrozole or fulvestrant.

Q3. How is Palbociclib different from chemotherapy?
A: Palbociclib is a targeted therapy that specifically inhibits CDK4/6, unlike general chemotherapy that affects all rapidly dividing cells.

Q4. What precautions should I take during treatment?
A: You should avoid grapefruit, monitor for infections, and attend regular blood count checks as advised by your doctor.

Q5. Is hair loss permanent with Palbociclib?
A: Hair thinning may occur, but it is typically reversible after stopping treatment.