Herceptin and Its Side Effects

1. Herceptin also known as Trastuzumab has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is used for treating HER2-positive breast cancer which is either early-stage or advanced-stage/metastatic and prevents it from growing. It treats the early stages of breast cancer, either as part of a regimen with chemotherapy or alone after the chemotherapy regimen which includes an anthracycline. This is done to reduce the risk of recurrence of breast cancer. It given in combination with Perjeta and Taxotere during pre or post-surgery-when cancer is larger than 2 cm, or it is in lymph nodes, or during advanced-stage breast cancer that has a high risk of metastasizing or becoming fatal. A medicine so good that it can treat breast cancer and prevent it from coming back has a few side effects as well. Common Trastuzumab side effects are: •Muscle, joint, or back pain

2. •Abdominal pain •Headache •Diarrhea •Redness or irritation at injection (IV) site, •Tiredness •Insomnia •Severe nausea and vomiting •Loss of appetite, •Weight loss, •Rashes •Altered sense of taste, •Mouth sores •Cold symptoms such as sneezing, stuffy nose, sinus pain, or sore throat. Consult your doctor immediately if you feel any of the adverse Trastuzumab side effects, and they are: • Increased coughing • Severe headache • Swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet • Bone pain • Sudden weight gain, • Unusual tiredness, • Tingling sensation or numbness • Mental or mood changes, • Fast or pounding heartbeat • Easy bruising or bleeding

3. The dosage of Herceptin depends upon the type and stage of the cancer being treated, and whether any other chemotherapy drugs are being given, as other medications can affect Herceptin. Thus, inform your doctor in advance about all the type of medication and supplements you use. Trastuzumab is not recommended during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus. It can only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Also, it is advised to use two forms of birth control, namely condoms and birth control pills, while you’re on Herceptin medication and use it for six months after the treatment has stopped. A doctor can help you with the detailed information about the treatment and the prevention you need to take according to your health issues.