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.
Kanjinti is a medication used to treat specific forms of cancer, and it is also occasionally used alongside other cancer medications.
Kanjinti is used to treat the following conditions:
It may be administered in cases where the cancer has metastasized to other areas of the body. Kanjinti is specifically prescribed when the cancer cells exhibit a significant presence of a protein known as HER2.
How does Kanjinti work?
Trastuzumab, the active ingredient in Kanjinti, is a monoclonal antibody, a kind of protein intended to bind to and identify the HER2 protein. Trastuzumab attaches to HER2, which causes immune system cells to become active and begin destroying tumor cells. Trastuzumab also prevents HER2 from producing signals that promote the development of tumor cells.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | C6470H10012N1726O2013S42 |
License | US FDA, US DailyMed, EU EMA |
Bioavailability | 87% |
Legal status | Rx-Only |
Chemical Name | trastuzumab |
Elimination half-life | 28 days |
Dosage (Strength) | 420mg/multidose vial |
Pregnancy | consult a healthcare provider |
Brands | Kanjinti |
Protein binding | Unknown |
PubChem CID | 46507516 |
MedlinePlus | a699019 |
ChEBI | Not Assigned |
ATC code | L01FD01 |
DrugBank | DB00072 |
KEGG | D03257 |
Routes of administration | Intravenous, subcutaneous |
You can buy Kanjinti with a prescription. Before proceeding, ensure that your doctor conducts a medical examination to confirm if Kanjinti is the appropriate medication for treating your cancer.
The duration of Kanjinti treatment will be determined by your doctor based on your response and the progression of your disease.
You may require a cardiac evaluation every six months for two years following your final dosage of this medication.
The vials of Kanjinti are available in two strengths: either containing 150 mg or 420 mg of the active ingredient trastuzumab. Also, it includes the following non-medicinal ingredients: L-histidine, L-histidine HCl, a, a-trehalose dihydrate, and polysorbate 20. The Bacteriostatic Water for injection supplied with Kanjinti 420 mg contains benzyl alcohol.
Avoid using Kanjinti if you are pregnant. Use reliable birth control methods and inform your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
Kanjinti can potentially lead to heart failure, especially if you already have heart disease or if you are receiving specific cancer medications concurrently.
Side effects may arise during the injection process. Notify your caregivers promptly.
Different medications, whether they are prescribed by a doctor, available over the counter, or even natural herbal products and vitamins, have the potential to interact with Kanjinti. It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, as well as any new medications you start or stop using.
Common side effects of Kanjinti may include:
Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Please notify your caregiver right away if you experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, itching, lightheadedness, weakness, shortness of breath, headache, fever, chills, or chest pain.
Kanjinti can lead to serious side effects like:
Your cancer treatment may be delayed or permanently stopped if you experience certain side effects.
This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and there may be others. Please consult your doctor for medical guidance concerning any side effects. Additionally, you can report any side effects to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Is Kanjinti chemotherapy or immunotherapy?
Kanjinti is a type of immunotherapy, not chemotherapy. It belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies, specifically designed to target and inhibit the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in certain types of cancer cells. This targeted approach differentiates it from chemotherapy, which broadly attacks rapidly dividing cells.
Does Kanjinti cause hair loss?
Unlike some chemotherapy drugs, Kanjinti does not typically cause hair loss. It targets cancer cells specifically, sparing most normal cells, including hair follicles. However, everyone's reaction to medication is unique, and side effects can vary. If you notice any unexpected changes while taking Kanjinti, it's important to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Is Kanjinti the same as Herceptin?
Kanjinti and Herceptin are very similar, as both are monoclonal antibodies that target the HER2 protein in certain types of cancer. However, Kanjinti is a biosimilar to Herceptin. This means it's highly similar to Herceptin in terms of structure, function, and efficacy, but it's not identical. Biosimilars like Kanjinti 420 mg offer a potentially more affordable alternative to their reference drugs.
What is the duration of Kanjinti?
The duration of Kanjinti treatment can vary based on the individual's medical condition and response to therapy. Typically, it's administered once every three weeks. However, the exact duration should be determined by a healthcare provider. It's crucial to follow the prescribed regimen to ensure the best possible outcome.
What class of drug is Kanjinti?
Kanjinti is a monoclonal antibody, a type of immunotherapy. It belongs to a class of drugs known as HER2 inhibitors. These drugs are designed to specifically target and inhibit the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in certain types of cancer cells. This targeted approach allows for more effective treatment of certain cancers.