What are CDK4/6 inhibitor drugs used for?

CDK4 and CDK6 are proteins that help regulate a cell's move into division. In some breast cancers, blocking these proteins can slow the growth of cancer cells. These medicines are generally used with hormone therapy, although the exact combination depends on the diagnosis and treatment plan. They are not suitable for every cancer or every person, and treatment decisions consider tumour features, previous treatment, liver health, blood counts, and other medicines.

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed and follow instructions about treatment cycles, missed doses, and food. Your team may check blood counts and liver tests, and may ask about fever, infections, tiredness, mouth problems, diarrhoea, or changes in heart rhythm. Keep an up-to-date list of medicines and supplements, since some products can alter how the drug is processed. Do not start a new medicine without checking first.

Call the treatment team promptly for fever, chills, a new cough, sore throat, unusual bruising, bleeding, severe diarrhoea, yellowing of the skin, or marked weakness. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or a fast or irregular heartbeat. Early contact lets clinicians assess a possible treatment effect and decide whether treatment should continue or change.

Ask which cancer feature makes a CDK4/6 inhibitor appropriate, what it will be combined with, and how long the plan may continue. Ask how monitoring will be arranged, which symptoms need a same-day call, and what to do if you vomit or miss a dose.