Herceptin Vial is a biologic medicine used to treat certain types of cancer that overexpress the HER2 protein. This vial contains the active ingredient trastuzumab, which is available in strengths of 150 mg, 440 mg, or 600 mg per 5 ml. Trastuzumab belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. This targeted therapy is a cornerstone of the treatment of HER2-positive cancers.
What are the ingredients in Herceptin?
Herceptin Vial contains the following active ingredients:
Trastuzumab: in strengths of 150 mg, 440 mg, or 600 mg per 5 ml.
In addition to this active ingredient, the vial may contain other ingredients that help preserve and stabilize the medicine and facilitate its preparation for injection.
Indications for Use
Herceptin Vial is used to treat certain types of cancer that are HER2-positive, including:
Breast Cancer:
In early or advanced stages, either as adjuvant therapy after surgery or in cases of metastatic cancer.
It can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
Gastric or Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma: When the tumor is HER2-positive, it is usually used in combination with chemotherapy.
The goal of treatment is to stop the growth of cancer cells, shrink the tumor, improve survival rates, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
What is the Herceptin Dosage?
The Herceptin Vial dose must be carefully determined by a healthcare provider based on the type of cancer, its stage, the patient's weight, and their general health. The medication is prepared for intravenous injection by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Doses and administration methods vary; they may be weekly, every three weeks, or every other week, depending on the specific treatment protocol.
The initial (loader) dose is given slowly, followed by subsequent doses more quickly if no severe reactions occur.
It is essential to adhere to the dosing schedule and not miss any doses to ensure the continuity and effectiveness of treatment.
The patient must be closely monitored during and after each injection for any potential side effects.
What are the side effects of Herceptin?
Herceptin Vial may cause some side effects, some of which are common and others can be serious. These should be discussed with your doctor before starting treatment.
Common side effects:
Infusion reactions: such as fever, chills, headache, nausea, and rash. These symptoms are usually mild and manageable.
Diarrhea.
Fatigue, weakness.
Muscle or joint pain.
Sore throat and cough.
What are the contraindications for using Herceptin?
Herceptin vial is contraindicated in the following cases:
Her sensitivity to trastuzumab or any of the other ingredients of the drug.
Pre-existing severe heart problems (such as untreated or uncontrolled heart failure).
Herceptin should be used with extreme caution in patients with a history of heart disease or who are receiving other chemotherapy that can affect the heart (such as anthracyclines). The doctor should be informed of all existing medical conditions and all medications being taken before starting this medication.