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Only Available By Prescription
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Herceptin, scientifically known as Trastuzumab, is a groundbreaking biologic medication primarily used in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer that are human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+). Herceptin works by targeting and binding to the HER2 protein receptors on the surface of cancer cells. By doing this, it inhibits the growth of these cells and triggers the body's immune response to destroy them. It is a critical option in the management of both early-stage and advanced HER2+ breast cancer.
Herceptin is produced through recombinant DNA technology, which allows it to specifically target cancer cells without harming most normal, healthy cells. This medication has been a significant advancement in oncology, offering hope and improved outcomes to patients with this aggressive form of cancer.
Before you buy Herceptin, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Herceptin cost.
Herceptin is administered intravenously, which means it is given through a vein. The medication is usually given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Initial Dose:
For early breast cancer and after chemotherapy: The typical initial dose is a loading dose of 4 mg per kg of body weight given over a 90-minute period.
Maintenance Dose:
Following the initial dose, a maintenance dose of 2 mg per kg is administered weekly over a 30-minute period, usually continuing for one year or until the disease recurs.
It is essential to follow the dosing schedule precisely as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Skipping doses or ending treatment early can decrease the effectiveness of the treatment and increase the risk of the cancer returning.
The active ingredient in Herceptin is trastuzumab.
Before starting Herceptin infusion, patients should discuss their full medical history with their healthcare provider. Herceptin is not suitable for everyone, and certain conditions can influence its suitability:
Heart disease: Herceptin can cause cardiotoxicity, so patients with pre-existing heart conditions should be closely monitored during treatment.
Pregnancy: Herceptin can harm an unborn baby; hence, effective contraception should be used, and pregnancy should be avoided during treatment and for several months after the last dose.
Lung problems: There have been reports of serious and fatal breathing issues in patients treated with Herceptin, especially among those with pre-existing lung conditions or those receiving other chemotherapy drugs known to cause lung damage.
Herceptin can interact with several other medications, which can alter its effectiveness and increase the risk of adverse effects. It is crucial to inform the healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Particularly, the use of other cancer treatments, such as anthracyclines or cyclophosphamide, should be discussed due to an increased risk of heart problems.
Common side effects include:
Why is Herceptin given every 3 weeks?
The frequency of Herceptin administration depends on the type of cancer being treated. It can be given once per week or once every 3 weeks.
What to avoid when on Herceptin?
Foods that reduce the effectiveness of Herceptin or promote HER2+ breast cancer growth should be avoided. These include alcohol, beef, foods with high copper content (e.g., most nuts, liver, shellfish), grapefruit and grapefruit juice, and sugar.
Is Herceptin chemotherapy?
No, Herceptin is not a chemotherapy drug. It is a targeted cancer therapy.
Does Herceptin cause hair loss?
Hair loss is not a common side effect of Herceptin. However, it can occur due to certain other side effects of Herceptin or other factors.
How long do Herceptin side effects last?
Most side effects of Herceptin are temporary, lasting a few days or weeks. However, some side effects may last for a long time.
How long does Herceptin stay in your system?
The mean time it takes for Herceptin to be removed from a patient’s body is 32 days.
How is Herceptin administered?
Herceptin is given as an intravenous infusion (IV drip) by a healthcare provider.
Can Herceptin cause heart problems?
Yes, Herceptin can cause heart problems. About one in four women treated with Herceptin develop heart problems.
Can you drink alcohol while taking Herceptin?
There are no known interactions between Herceptin and alcohol. However, drinking alcohol may make certain side effects of Herceptin worse.
Do Herceptin injections hurt?
Yes, Herceptin injections can cause discomfort or pain at the injection site.
