Used to conduct targeted drug therapy for curing cancer, Trastuzumab is also known as Herceptin or Hertraz. This medication is prescribed for the treatment of cancers that are HER2 positive such as early-stage breast cancer, advanced breast cancer, and advanced stomach cancer. The protein present in the cancer cells helps them to grow and survive in the body. With the help of Trastuzumab, the monoclonal antibody attaches to the protein HER2 protein and curbs further growth. For cancers that are HER2 negative, this medication won’t be of any use. Mention may also be made that it is also used to prevent the relapse of cancer.
How is Trastuzumab given?
There are two ways by which this medicine is given-
Intravenously
Subcutaneously (under the skin/ outer part of legs)
Dosage and Usage
It takes around 30 to 90 minutes to give the Hertraz 440 mg injection. Typically, the first session takes more time. Hertraz is also given as a drip in the vein for it to travel through the bloodstream. The following sessions are usually shorter, depending on the effects and the ability of your body to deal with those.
It must be mentioned here that the usual dosage is Trastuzumab 440mg. However, depending on your height, weight, and general health condition, the doctor, may modify it.
For breast cancer
It is a preferred breast cancer medication that has to be continued for a year in primary breast cancer patients, which completes 18 cycles. This drug can also be continued along with other anticancer therapies, an aromatase inhibitor, or hormone therapy. In some cases, the medication is continued after surgery of breast cancer as well, which requires the completion of roughly 4 to 6 cycles.
For stomach cancer
If you are suffering from stomach cancer, Trastuzumab injection is usually given along with chemotherapy once every 14 to 21 days, depending on the reaction of your body and health conditions.
Precautionary measures to take while taking Trastuzumab
The patient may develop severe infusion-related reactions while undergoing this therapy. It is important to change the injection site every time so that the swelling does not increase.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant any time soon. Trastuzumab has a negative impact on the fetus and often causes the death of the unborn baby. Therefore, it is recommended to wait for at least 7 months after the last dose.
Similarly, you are also supposed to avoid breastfeeding while being on Trastuzumab.
It also decreases the number of white blood cells in the body that makes the patient prone to catching an infection. Therefore, it is suggested to maintain distance from people suffering from contagious infections like cold, influenza, pox, etc.
Inform your doctor about any other medication that you are on at present to avoid any harmful reaction after starting therapy.
It is important to mention here that the medication is not prescribed for patients with a heart problem. Therefore, a series of blood tests and other medical examinations are conducted to determine whether you have high blood pressure or other cardiac issues. Note that your doctor will not confirm this drug therapy without conducting a proper ECG.
Trastuzumab side effects
Fever and chills
Mild body pain
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Unusual weight loss
Redness, swallowing or itching on the injection site
Urine inflammation
Abdominal pain
Blood clots determined from shortness of breath and chest pain
Excessive coughs
Dizziness and tiredness
Decreasing platelet count leading to bruising and peeling of skin
What to do while undergoing this drug therapy?
Make sure to drink enough fluid every day to prevent getting dehydrated. Since it causes nausea, your doctor might also prescribe anti-nausea medicine so that you are able to have sufficient nutrition. Avoid driving or engaging in other hefty works because it causes drowsiness and fatigue. It is necessary to avoid smoking and drinking while you are undergoing this drug therapy. Do not take vitamin supplements while taking Trastuzumab.
Conclusion
It is important to have all the medical insurance papers ready because Trastuzumab 440 mg price is as high as $1636. The treatment cost will be covered by insurance, which is certainly a convenient option for the patients. Regular blood tests and examinations will be conducted to monitor the progress of treatment.
FAQ's
When Trastuzumab was approved for medical use?
In the month of September, 1998 in the United States, and in the month of August, 2000 in European Union, Trastuzumab was approved for medical use.
What is the brand name of Trastuzumab?
Herceptin is the brand name of Trastuzumab.
What are the uses of Trastuzumab?
Trastuzumab specifically is a monoclonal antibody used in order to treat stomach cancer and breast cancer.
How should Trastuzumab be given?
Trastuzumab should be given by slow injection into a vein and injection just under the skin.
How can Trastuzumab be used?
Trastuzumab can be used by itself or together with certain other chemotherapy medication.
What are the commonly reported side effects due to Trastuzumab?
The commonly reported side effects due to Trastuzumab include infection, cough, fever, headache, rash and trouble sleeping.
What are the severe side effects due to Trastuzumab?
The severe side effects due to Trastuzumab include allergic reactions, lung disease and heart failure.
How does Trastuzumab act?
Trastuzumab acts by binding to the HER2 receptor and resisting the duplication of cells.
What if Trastuzumab used during pregnancy?
Use of Trastuzumab during pregnancy may be responsible for causing harm to the baby.
Disclaimer: The content in the article is solely for informing the audience. We don’t claim the effectiveness of the medication for treating the disease.