Indications
Pertuzumab is a targeted cancer medicine used for HER2-positive breast cancer, a type in which cancer cells carry too much of a protein called HER2. It is given together with Trastuzumab and chemotherapy, before or after surgery for early breast cancer, and for breast cancer that has spread. Some products combine Pertuzumab and Trastuzumab in one injection.
How It Works
Pertuzumab is a monoclonal antibody, a laboratory-made protein that attaches to the HER2 receptor on cancer cells. It stops HER2 from pairing with other related receptors, which blocks the growth signals that make the cancer cells divide. It works on a different part of HER2 from Trastuzumab, so the two together give a stronger effect. It also helps the immune system attack the cancer cells.
Dosage and Administration
Pertuzumab is given only in a hospital or cancer centre by a doctor or nurse, either as an infusion into a vein or, for the combined product, as an injection under the skin. The dose, schedule and length of treatment are decided by the cancer specialist, as prescribed.
Interactions
It is used with Trastuzumab and chemotherapy such as Docetaxel; the care team manages the combined side effects. Anthracycline chemotherapy (for example Doxorubicin) given before or with it can increase the risk of heart problems. Tell the team about all medicines and supplements you take.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Pertuzumab or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Common side effects, often from the combined treatment, include diarrhoea, hair loss, nausea, tiredness, rash, low white blood cell counts with risk of infection, mouth sores, nerve tingling and loss of appetite. It can weaken the heart’s pumping action. Infusion and allergic reactions may occur.
Get urgent medical help for fever or signs of infection, shortness of breath, swollen ankles, fast heartbeat, severe or long-lasting diarrhoea, or swelling of the face or difficulty breathing during or after an infusion.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pertuzumab can harm an unborn baby. Women must not become pregnant during treatment and must use effective contraception during treatment and for 7 months after the last dose. Do not breastfeed during treatment; ask the specialist when it is safe to start.
Precautions and Warnings
Heart function is checked with a scan before and regularly during treatment. Use with care in people with heart disease or previous anthracycline treatment. Patients are watched for infusion reactions. Tell the team about any planned vaccines.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely as it is given by health professionals. If it happens, the patient is monitored and treated for symptoms.
Therapeutic Class
Antineoplastic, HER2-directed monoclonal antibody.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C, do not freeze, in the original carton to protect from light. Hospital product: handle as directed on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.