About trastuzumab
HER2-targeted monoclonal antibody
Used for
- HER2-positive breast cancer
- HER2-positive stomach or gastroesophageal junction cancer
Usual adult dose
IV dosing depends on cancer and regimen; commonly an initial 4 mg/kg, then 2 mg/kg weekly, or 8 mg/kg then 6 mg/kg every three weeks.
Common side effects
- Fever and chills during infusion
- Nausea and diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Heart muscle weakness
Important warnings
- Can cause serious heart failure; assess heart function before and during treatment.
- Infusion reactions can be severe, especially with the first dose.
- Can cause severe harm or death to an unborn baby.
- Use only for cancers confirmed HER2-positive.
Pregnancy
Can harm or kill an unborn baby. Avoid pregnancy during treatment and for seven months after the last dose.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for seven months after the last dose.
Interactions
- Anthracycline chemotherapy may increase heart damage risk, including when given after trastuzumab.
- Other medicines that can weaken heart function may increase cardiac risk.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.