About
Trastuzumab is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that selectively targets the extracellular domain of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein. HER2 is a proto-oncogene that is overexpressed in certain aggressive cancers, particularly breast and gastric cancers, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation. By binding to HER2, trastuzumab inhibits downstream signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways, and mediates antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), thereby suppressing tumor growth and promoting apoptosis. It is administered intravenously and is a cornerstone in the treatment of HER2-positive early and metastatic breast cancer, as well as HER2-positive metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. Its targeted action significantly improves patient outcomes in these specific cancer types.
Uses
- HER2-positive early breast cancer
- HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer
- HER2-positive metastatic gastric cancer
- HER2-positive gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma
Directions For Use
Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and infusion schedule are based on body weight and specific treatment protocol.
Benefits
- Significantly improves survival in HER2-positive cancers.
- Reduces recurrence risk in early breast cancer.
- Targeted therapy with a specific mechanism of action.
- Can be used in neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and metastatic settings.
- Often combined with chemotherapy for enhanced efficacy.
- Well-established efficacy and safety profile.
Side Effects
- Cardiotoxicity (left ventricular dysfunction, heart failure)
- Infusion-related reactions (fever, chills, nausea)
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Rash
- Myelosuppression (neutropenia)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Cough
- Dyspnea
- Abdominal pain
- Peripheral edema
Safety Measures
- Alcohol - No direct interaction, but alcohol consumption may exacerbate general fatigue or gastrointestinal upset.
- Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to significant risk of oligohydramnios and fetal renal dysfunction. Use effective contraception.
- Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding as trastuzumab may be excreted in breast milk and harm the infant.
- Liver - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver conditions; monitor liver function tests during treatment.
- Kidney - Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment; monitor renal function closely.
- Lung - Rare but serious pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis, can occur; monitor for respiratory symptoms.
Disclaimer
MedEHub is committed to delivering reliable, expert-reviewd information to help consumers make informed health decisions. However, the content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.
Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.
| Shipping Cost |
|
| Shop Location | Assam, India |

No comments found for this product. Be the first to comment!