Keytruda (pembrolizumab) vs Verzenio/Verzenios (abemaciclib)
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) vs Verzenio/Verzenios (abemaciclib)
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that works by blocking the PD-1 protein on immune cells, thereby boosting the immune system's response against cancer cells, and is commonly used in various types of cancers, including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and head and neck cancers. Verzenio (abemaciclib), on the other hand, is a CDK4/6 inhibitor that interferes with cancer cell division and is specifically indicated for hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer, often in combination with hormone therapy. The choice between Keytruda and Verzenio would depend on the specific type and characteristics of the cancer being treated, as well as the patient's overall health and treatment goals, necessitating a personalized consultation with an oncologist.
Difference between Keytruda and Verzenio/Verzenios
| Metric | Keytruda (pembrolizumab) | Verzenio/Verzenios (abemaciclib) |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Pembrolizumab | Abemaciclib |
| Indications | Various types of cancers including melanoma, lung cancer, head and neck cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, and stomach cancer | HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer |
| Mechanism of action | Programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) blocking antibody | CDK4 & CDK6 inhibitor |
| Brand names | Keytruda | Verzenio, Verzenios |
| Administrative route | Intravenous infusion | Oral |
| Side effects | Fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, decreased appetite, itching, diarrhea, nausea, rash, fever, cough, dyspnea, constipation | Diarrhea, neutropenia, nausea, abdominal pain, infections, anemia, thrombocytopenia, vomiting, alopecia, fatigue |
| Contraindications | Individuals with hypersensitivity to pembrolizumab or any of its excipients | Individuals with hypersensitivity to abemaciclib or any of its excipients, breastfeeding |
| Drug class | Anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody | CDK4 & CDK6 inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Merck & Co. | Eli Lilly and Company |
Efficacy
Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) Efficacy in Breast Cancer
Keytruda, known generically as pembrolizumab, is a monoclonal antibody that has shown efficacy in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer. It is particularly used in patients with advanced-stage or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) that expresses PD-L1. Pembrolizumab works by blocking the PD-1 receptor, thereby enhancing the immune system's ability to detect and fight tumor cells. In clinical trials, pembrolizumab, when combined with chemotherapy, has been shown to improve progression-free survival in patients with PD-L1 positive TNBC compared to chemotherapy alone. However, its efficacy may vary based on the level of PD-L1 expression and the presence of other biomarkers.
Verzenio/Verzenios (Abemaciclib) Efficacy in Breast Cancer
Verzenio, also known as abemaciclib, is a CDK4/6 inhibitor that is used in the treatment of HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer. It is often used in combination with an aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant for women with disease progression following endocrine therapy. Abemaciclib works by inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6, which are enzymes that promote the growth of cancer cells. Clinical trials have demonstrated that abemaciclib, in combination with standard endocrine therapy, significantly extends progression-free survival and may also improve overall survival in certain patient populations.
Both Keytruda and Verzenio represent significant advancements in the treatment of breast cancer. Their efficacy underscores the importance of personalized medicine, as their benefits are most pronounced in patients whose tumors exhibit specific characteristics that make them susceptible to these targeted therapies. As such, biomarker testing is essential to identify appropriate candidates for these treatments and to optimize outcomes in breast cancer care.
It is important to note that while Keytruda and Verzenio have shown promise in improving outcomes for certain breast cancer patients, they are not without side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. The decision to use these medications should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into consideration the individual patient's health status, cancer characteristics, and treatment goals.
Regulatory Agency Approvals
Keytruda
-
European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
-
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
-
Health Canada
-
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
-
Medsafe (NZ)
Verzenio/Verzenios
-
European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
-
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
-
Health Canada
-
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
Access Keytruda or Verzenio/Verzenios today
If Keytruda or Verzenio/Verzenios are not approved or available in your country (e.g. due to supply issues), you can access them via Everyone.org.
How it works
Make an enquiry
Choose the medicine you want to buy, answer a couple of questions, and upload your prescription to speed things up. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
Make an enquiry
Choose the medicine you want to buy, answer a couple of questions, and upload your prescription to speed things up. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
Breeze through the paperwork
We'll guide you through the required documents for importing unapproved medicine, ensuring you have all the necessary information.
Get a personalized quote
We’ll prepare a quote for you, including medicine costs and any shipping, administrative, or import fees that may apply.
Receive your medicine
Accept the quote and we’ll handle the rest - sourcing and safely delivering your medicine.
Some text on this page has been automatically generated. Speak to your physician before you start a new treatment or medication.
Let's talk
If you have any questions, call us or send us a message through WhatsApp or email:
Contact us