Q. What kind of medicine is Palbace?
Palbace is an anti-cancer medicine. Palbace blocks proteins known as cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors. Blocking these proteins can slow down the growth of cancer cells and delay the progression of the cancer.
Q. How long do I have to take Palbace?
The duration of treatment varies from person to person. Your doctor will decide the number of cycles you need to receive based on your condition, response to treatment and your tolerance to side effects. Your doctor may decrease your dose or stop your treatment temporarily or permanently if you experience certain side effects.
Q. Are the side effects of Palbace irreversible?
No, most of the side effects are reversible and disappear when the medicine is stopped. Neutropenia is a well-recognized adverse effect of Palbace in which the number of your white blood cells get reduced and your immune system gets weakened. As a result, you may be at greater risk of getting an infection while you are taking Palbace. However, this side effect disappears rapidly once you stop taking the medicine.
Q. Does treatment with Palbace require monitoring of blood counts?
Yes, blood tests are important since this medicine can lower your blood counts. The regular blood tests check the effect of Palbace on your blood cells (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets). These tests should be done at the beginning of each chemotherapy cycle, on the 15th day of the first 2 cycles, and as clinically indicated.
Q. How should I take Palbace?
Generally, Palbace is taken once daily for 21 consecutive days followed by 7 days off treatment to add up a complete cycle of 28 days. Take this medicine with food and at the same time each day. Swallow the whole capsules. Do not open, chew, or crush them. Do not take the capsules that are broken or cracked. If you vomit after taking Palbace, do not take another dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.
Q. Do I need to use birth control method while using Palbace?
Women of childbearing potential who are receiving Palbace and their partners should use adequate contraceptive methods (e.g. double-barrier contraception such as condom and diaphragm). These methods should be used during therapy and for at least 3 weeks after completing therapy for females. Men who are on Palbace therapy should use birth control methods for at least 14 weeks after completing the therapy.
Q. Does Palbace affect fertility?
Male fertility may be affected during treatment with Palbace. Thus, men may consider sperm preservation prior to beginning therapy with Palbace.
Q. What are the serious side effects of Palbace?
The serious side effects of Palbace include shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness, unusual bleeding or bruising or nosebleeds. It may also cause fever, chills or signs of infection and fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment.