Herceptin

What is it?

A drug used in chemotherapy which is a preparation of monoclonal antibody, comprising 150mg of trastuzumab as powder in vials for reconstitution and injection. Usedfor: particular forms of breast cancer which has spread. Used either as firstline therapy along with paclitaxel when anthracyclines cannot be used or as sole therapy, after at least 2 other courses of chemotherapy have been tried.

Dosage

Adults, initial loading dose of 4mg per kg of body weight by intravenous infusion over 1 and a half hours, then 2mg per kg of body weight by intravenous infusion over half an hour, once each week. Treatment to continue until disease progresses.

Special Care

Pregnancy, heart and circulatory disease, disease of coronary arteries, heart failure, failure of left ventricle, previous high blood pressure. Heart function should be monitored before and after treatment and Also, if treatment with anthracyclines begins within 24 weeks of herceptin therapy.

Avoid Use

Breastfeeding, severe breath lessness, allergy to mouse proteins.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Cyclophosphamide, anthracyclines.

Known Side Effects

Malaise, 'flu-like symptoms, headaches, aches and pains in muscles, bones, joints, neck, chest, abdomen, weight loss, infections, skin reactions, allergic effects, blood changes, effects on liver (toxicity), urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal upset, high blood pressure, heart, circulatory and lung effects, disturbance of taste, central nervous system effects, dry mouth. Infusion can cause serious/fatal symptoms up to 6 hours after being given and other late symptoms related to infusion can occur. Patient should be warned about these and asked to report any that occur. All adverse side effects should be reported to the Committee on the Safety of Medicines (CSM).