Good morning , after seeing my oncology doctor Monday they have offered a course of treatment for 2 years if I can tolerate the side effects , the chemo tablet is called Abemaciclib( verzenios)quite a new tablet , I just wondered if there was any data/ information regarding the severity of hair loss while taking this tablet .
Hi Mel jane,
My name is Anne and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line. Welcome to the online community. I hope you have found it supportive so far.
I understand you have been offered Abemaciclib and would like more information on the potential side effect of hair loss. As you already mentioned, Abemaciclib is a relatively new drug. It is a type of targeted drug offered to people with certain types of breast cancer. It is often given alongside aromatase inhibitors or fulvestrant.
Alopecia (the medical term for hair loss) has been reported as being ‘very common’ which means more than 1 in 10 people suffer this side effect. It typically begins 2-3 weeks after treatment starts and may include all body hair too. The EMC has more detailed information on how often certain side effects occurred during studies of this drug (in combination with endocrine therapy), which you may find helpful. It does not, however, mention the degree of hair loss.
Hair loss can be a distressing side effect of many cancer treatments. Sometimes it can help to be prepared before hair loss occurs. Look Good Feel Better and Cancer Hair Care are both fantastic charities offering information and support to people affected by hair loss.
Many people in similar situations choose to wear a wig or hairpiece. This can help you feel ‘more like yourself’. Your Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) at your hospital can advise you on how to get a wig on the NHS, should this be something you would like to do. The process varies depending on which country you are in so it would be worthwhile having a chat with your CNS for more information.
You may find it helpful to chat to others in our online forum who have experience of this drug. Sometimes chatting to others in a similar situation can be helpful.
Take care for now,
Anne - Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
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