How does it work?

Trastuzumab is a type of medicine called a humanised monoclonal antibody. Monoclonal antibodies are antibodies that are synthetically designed to recognise unique proteins in the body, called antigens. Trastuzumab is used to treat tumours that have large amounts of a unique antigen called human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 protein (HER2) on the surface of the cancer cells. HER2 is present in excessive amounts on the surface of some breast cancer cells, and its presence stimulates the growth of these cancer cells. Trastuzumab works by recognising HER2 on the surface of cancer cells. It binds to HER2 and by doing so, inhibits its function. This stops the growth of the cancer cells. Trastuzumab is used to treat breast cancer that has large amounts of HER2 on its cells, and has spread to other areas of the body. It is used on its own when at least two other chemotherapy treatments have proved unsuccessful, and can also be used in combination with the chemotherapy agent paclitaxel, as first line treatment.

What is it used for?

Breast cancer which has spread to other parts of the body

Warning!

The safety and efficacy of this medicine in children and adolescents under 18 years of age has not been established.

Heart function should be monitored before and during treatment with this medicine.

Serious reactions to this medicine, such as severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), swelling of face and lips (angioedema), breathing difficulties, abnormal heart rhythms, itchy rash, fever, chills and reduction in blood pressure may occur infrequently. These effects mainly occur after the first infusion. You will be observed by a health care professional during infusions, for at least six hours after the first infusion, and for two hours after subsequent infusions. On very rare occasions, these reactions may occur more than 6 hours after the infusion. Contact your doctor if this occurs.

Use with caution in

Coronary artery disease

Current or previous high blood pressure

Heart failure

Not to be used in

Allergy to mouse protein

People who need oxygen treatment

Severe breathing difficulties due to complications of advanced cancer

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine for use during pregnancy has not been established. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Women should not breastfeed during treatment with this medicine, or for six months after the last dose.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Headache

Rash

Inability of the heart to pump blood efficiently (heart failure)

Depression

Difficulties with breathing

Blood disorders

Disturbances of the gut such as diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain

Lung disorders

Fever (pyrexia)

Chills

Pins and needles (paraesthesia)

Dizziness

Excessive fluid retention in the body tissues, resulting in swelling (oedema)

Chest pain

Increased heart rate (tachycardia)

Anxiety

Pain in the muscles and joints

Liver or kidney disorders

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Go To Next Page>>
The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved