Key takeaways
Kisqali (ribociclib) and Verzenio (abemaciclib) are both medications used to treat hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor 2-negative (HR+, HER2-) breast cancer. They belong to the same drug class, cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitors, which help slow down the growth of cancer cells. However, there are some differences between them. Kisqali is typically taken once a day in cycles of 21 days on and 7 days off, while Verzenio is taken twice a day without breaks. Kisqali is usually taken with hormone therapy, whereas Verzenio can be used alone if other treatments haven't worked. Common side effects of Kisqali include nausea, tiredness, and low white blood cell counts, while Verzenio often causes diarrhea, low white blood cell counts, and tiredness. Both medications require regular blood tests to monitor for side effects, and you should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking them. Additionally, Verzenio has a risk of causing blood clots, which is not mentioned for Kisqali.
