About Verzenio
Verzenio is considered a CDK4/6 inhibitor, which functions inside cancer cells to block CDK4/6 activity and stop the growth of cancer cells.
Some conditions that Verzenio is known to treat include early breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer. Verzenio is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under different brand names, including abemaciclib.
Verzenio may be prescribed as a tablet. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed Verzenio, complete the entire course of the breast cancer treatment unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the breast cancer treatment may not fully treat your breast cancer.
Verzenio uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for Verzenio, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online healthcare provider may prescribe it for the following reasons.
It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Breast cancer
Verzenio is FDA-approved to treat early breast cancer and advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
Verzenio treatment may be combined with endocrine therapy (tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor) to treat hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor 2-negative, node-positive early breast cancer, and metastatic or advanced breast cancer.
Verzenio can also be prescribed as a monotherapy for advanced or metastatic breast, following with disease progression following initial endocrine-based therapy and prior chemotherapy.
Verzenio side effects
The side effects associated with taking Verzenio are typically mild. Most Verzenio side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. Verzenio has some common side effects. They may include:
Diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach pain
Loss of appetite
Headache
Hair thinning or hair loss
Low blood cell counts
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Severe or ongoing diarrhea (loose stools)
Signs of liver problems
Signs of a blood clot
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or worsening symptoms. It is not known whether Verzenio treatment is safe and effective in children under 18 years of age.
How to take Verzenio
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Verzenio prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Verzenio can come in different forms and doses, so follow the specific instructions on your prescription. When prescribed with fulvestrant, tamoxifen, or an aromatase inhibitor, the dose of Verzenio is typically 150 mg orally twice daily. When prescribed as a monotherapy, the dose of Verzenio is typically 200 mg orally twice daily.
What to avoid while taking Verzenio
Verzenio has 274 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other prescription medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter medicines.
Possible drug interactions with Verzenio include:
Ativan (lorazepam)
Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
Hormonal therapy, such as birth control
Tylenol (acetaminophen)
Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Verzenio. Grapefruit can increase side effects such as serious blood clots, abdominal pain, tiredness, and liver problems. Drinking alcohol can also lead to an increased risk of adverse side effects.
Medication alternatives to Verzenio
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another kinase inhibitor or breast cancer treatment in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Breast cancer
Arimidex (anastrozole)
Femara (letrozole)
Ibrace (palbociclib)
Verzenio prescription FAQs
How much does Verzenio cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, Verzenio costs around $3,969 for fourteen 50 mg oral tablets without insurance.
How can I refill my Verzenio prescription?
To refill your Verzenio prescription, book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
How long can Verzenio extend your life?
Studies show that treatment with Verzenio can extend life by 9.4 months, on average, for patients with advanced breast cancer.
How long does it take for Verzenio to start working?
Although Verzenio starts working in your body quickly, it typically takes 2–4 months for any change in outcomes.
Do you take Verzenio forever?
Most people continue treatment with Verzenio until the disease progresses or unacceptable side effects occur. Do not stop taking Verzenio without your doctor's approval.
Who should not take Verzenio?
To make sure Verzenio is safe for you, talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
Allergic reaction to abemaciclib
Low platelet counts
A fever, chills, or other signs of serious infections
Serious liver problems or kidney disease
Increased risk of blood clots
You may require a negative pregnancy test before starting Verzenio. Use effective birth control while taking this medication.
What happens if I miss a dose of Verzenio?
If you miss a dose of Verzenio, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I take too much Verzenio?
If you've taken too much Verzenio, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
3 simple steps to request your Verzenio prescription today

Step 1
Book a Verzenio prescription request appointment.
You can book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Verzenio prescription.
You can visit a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3
Pick up your Verzenio prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Verzenio prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Verzenio prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
Copay
For all visits
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Verzenio prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Breastcancer.org. Verzenio. Accessed on October 25, 2022. https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/targeted-therapy/verzenio
Food and Drug Administration. Verzenio prescription label. Accessed on October 25, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/208716s006s007s008lbl.pdf
MedlinePlus. Abemaciclib. Accessed on October 25, 2022. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a617049.html