Halaven (eribulin): What to Expect, Side Effects, and More

Halaven is a chemotherapy medicine called a microtubule inhibitor. The medicine is made in a lab but based on a natural molecule found in a type of sea sponge.

See Halaven prescribing information.

Microtubule inhibitors work by interfering with microtubules — tube-like structures within cells that help cells to divide. Without microtubules working, cancer cells can’t divide and the cells die.

Halaven is given intravenously. The dosage is 1.4 mg per square meter of body surface area over 2 to 5 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of a 21-day cycle.

A lower starting dose is recommended for people with mild or moderate liver or kidney problems. 

Like almost all breast cancer medicines, Halaven (eribulin) can cause side effects, some of them severe.

The most common side effects of Halaven are:

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  neutropenia (low white blood cell count)

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  anemia

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  fatigue

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  hair loss

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  peripheral neuropathy

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  nausea

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  constipation

You should not take Halaven if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Members of our community discuss their experiences with Halaven in the community forum. Here are some of their comments. Remember, it's very important to talk to your doctor about any side effects you're having and ask about ways to manage them.

“I'm doing OK on Halaven. Biggest issues are fatigue and lack of appetite (what else is new?). But somehow I'm managing to keep my weight stable, and just rest as much as I need to.” —Jaylea

“I went 8 rounds of Halaven with no appetite at all.” —astein

“I did lose my hair while on Halaven. I remember it well because it was so sudden.” —50sgirl

Read more in our Halaven discussion forum.

The cost of Halaven may vary. The price you’ll pay depends on the drug manufacturer, your health insurance provider and plan, where you live, and the pharmacy you use. You may also be charged for the office visits required for infusions.

Note: Your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization before covering Halaven. 

Learn more about financial assistance and medicine cost-lowering tips.