About trastuzum ab emtansine
HER2-targeted antibody-drug conjugate
Used for
- Treats HER2-positive early breast cancer after surgery when cancer remains.
- Treats HER2-positive advanced or metastatic breast cancer after prior trastuzumab and taxane treatment.
Usual adult dose
3.6 mg/kg by intravenous infusion every three weeks; treatment duration depends on the condition.
Common side effects
- Fatigue, nausea, and headache
- Low platelet counts and bleeding
- Liver enzyme changes
- Nerve damage, including numbness or tingling
Important warnings
- Can cause serious liver injury; liver tests are monitored.
- Can cause bleeding and low platelets; serious bleeding may occur.
- May cause heart problems; heart function is monitored.
- Can cause lung inflammation or severe infusion reactions.
Pregnancy
Can cause fetal harm. Pregnancy testing and effective contraception are required during treatment and for seven months afterward.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment or for seven months after the last dose.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase exposure; examples include clarithromycin and ketoconazole.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.