Uses of Trastuzumab

Trastuzumab is used to inhibit the cation of certain cellular proteins that cause breast cancer and stomach cancer. It can be used either alone or in combination with other anticancer drugs (such as paclitaxel, cisplatin, docetaxel, 5-fluorouracil, capecitabine) or hormonal drugs (such as tamoxifen, anastrozole) to achieve better results.

Therapeutic Category

Trastuzumab: Anticancer drugs

How Trastuzumab works

Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody. It works by blocking the actions of certain cellular proteins (HER2) that triggers cancer cell formation. It also blocks various downstream cell signalling pathways that triggers cancer growth within the body. As a result, it reduces cancer formation and prevents it further growth within the body.

Common side effects of Trastuzumab

• increased infections
• low RBC, WBC and platelet counts in blood
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, constipation, indigestion
• mouth ulcers, sore throat
• hair loss
• bladder infection
• headache, dizziness, tiredness, weakness
• liver inflammation
• weight loss, lack of appetite
• pain, numbness, tingling sensation of hands and feet
• restlessness, problems in falling asleep, anxiety, depression
• flushing (skin redness), skin rash or itching, acne
• eye inflammation, dry eyes or watery eyes
• shortness of breath, runny nose, nasal itching and repeated sneezing
• increased sweating, night sweats
• muscle pain, joint pain, back pain, neck pain
• tremors (shakiness)
• swelling of the hands or ankles
• breast inflammation
• haemorrhoids, leg pain
• muscle problems

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, nausea, vomiting, increased muscle tension and shaking, headache, dizziness, breathing difficulties, high or low blood pressure, heart rhythm disturbances swelling of the face and lips, rash and tiredness
• If you experience signs of heart failure such as breathlessness, cough, fluid retention (swelling) in the legs or arms, palpitations
• If you experience signs of kidney problems such as weakness, shortness of breath, fatigue and confusion), heart problems (fluttering of the heart), fits, vomiting or diarrhoea and tingling in the mouth, hands or feet

Health Tips for Trastuzumab

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and getting enough rest can contribute to your overall well-being and support your body's ability to tolerate treatment
• Drink an adequate amount of water each day to stay hydrated, especially if you experience diarrhoea as a side effect of this medicine
• Follow good hygiene practices to minimize the risk of infection. Wash your hands regularly, avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Coping with a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be challenging. Seek emotional support from friends, family, support groups, or professional counsellors to help manage the psychological impact of your treatment