Trastuzumab, also called Herceptin, is a medicine used to treat certain cancers by targeting a specific protein called HER2. Here's how it works :

1. **Finding the Target:** Some cancer cells have too much of a protein called HER2 on their surface. This protein makes the cancer grow faster. Trastuzumab is designed to find and stick to these HER2 proteins.

2. **Blocking the Signal:** Once trastuzumab attaches to the HER2 proteins, it blocks the signals that tell the cancer cells to grow. This helps to slow down or stop the cancer from getting bigger.

3. **Calling for Help:** Trastuzumab also acts like a flag. By sticking to the cancer cells, it helps the body’s immune system recognize these cells as harmful. The immune system can then attack and destroy the cancer cells.

4. **Administering the Medicine:** Trastuzumab is given through an IV, which means it goes directly into your bloodstream. This is done at a clinic or hospital.

In summary, trastuzumab works by finding and sticking to the HER2 protein on cancer cells, blocking their growth signals, and helping the immune system destroy them. This makes it a powerful tool for treating cancers that have too much HER2.

Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist

Trastuzumab, also known as Herceptin, is primarily used to treat certain types of breast cancer and stomach cancer. Specifically, it is effective for cancers that have high levels of a protein called HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2). Here’s what trastuzumab is useful for:

### 1. **Breast Cancer**
Trastuzumab is widely used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer. This type of breast cancer makes too much of the HER2 protein, which promotes the growth of cancer cells. Trastuzumab helps by:
- **Early-Stage Breast Cancer:** It is used after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to reduce the risk of cancer returning. Sometimes, it is also used before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink tumors.
- **Metastatic Breast Cancer:** It is used to treat breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Trastuzumab can help to control the spread and improve survival rates.

### 2. **Stomach Cancer**
Trastuzumab is also used to treat advanced stomach cancer or gastroesophageal junction cancer (cancer where the stomach meets the esophagus) that is HER2-positive. When combined with chemotherapy, it can help to control the growth of cancer and extend the patient's life.

### Combination with Other Treatments
- **Chemotherapy:** Trastuzumab is often used in combination with chemotherapy drugs to enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment.
- **Surgery and Radiation:** It can be used alongside surgery and radiation therapy to improve outcomes in early-stage cancers.

### Monitoring and Side Effects
While trastuzumab is effective, it requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects, particularly on the heart. Patients typically undergo heart function tests before and during treatment.

### In Summary
Trastuzumab is a vital treatment for HER2-positive breast and stomach cancers. It works by targeting the HER2 protein on cancer cells, blocking their growth, and helping the immune system destroy them. This targeted approach has significantly improved outcomes for patients with these types of cancer.

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If you miss a dose of trastuzumab, it's important to contact our doctor or healthcare team right away. They can give you instructions on what to do next. Missing a dose can affect your treatment plan, but our doctor will help you get back on track.

Here are some simple steps to follow if you miss a dose:

1. **Call our Doctor:** Inform our healthcare provider as soon as possible.
2. **Follow Instructions:** our doctor will tell you when to reschedule the missed dose.
3. **Do Not Double Up:** Don't try to take two doses at once to make up for the missed dose.

Staying in touch with our healthcare team and following their guidance is the best way to manage a missed dose of trastuzumab.

Please book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist to know more about what happens if you miss the dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Fever: You might feel hot and sweaty.
• Nausea: You could feel like you need to vomit.
• Vomiting: You might actually throw up.
• Diarrhea: You could have loose or watery stools.
• Fatigue: You may feel very tired.
• Headache: You might get a headache.
• Rash: Your skin could develop red, itchy spots.
• Infections: You might get sick more easily because your immune system is affected.

any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist

Trastuzumab, like many medications, can interact with other drugs. Here are some common medicines that might interact with trastuzumab:

### 1. **Anthracycline Chemotherapy:**
Combining trastuzumab with certain chemotherapy drugs like doxorubicin or epirubicin can increase the risk of heart problems.

### 2. **ACE Inhibitors and Beta-Blockers:**
These are medications used to treat high blood pressure or heart conditions. When taken with trastuzumab, they may increase the risk of heart issues.

### 3. **Certain Antibiotics:**
Some antibiotics like doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide may interact with trastuzumab, leading to heart problems.

### 4. **Herbal Supplements:**
Herbal supplements or alternative medicines might interfere with trastuzumab's effectiveness or cause side effects. Always inform your doctor if you are taking any supplements.

### 5. **Other Cancer Medications:**
Other cancer drugs, especially those that affect the heart, may interact with trastuzumab.

In summary, it's crucial to communicate openly with our healthcare team about all the medications you're taking to avoid any potential interactions with trastuzumab and ensure the best possible treatment outcomes.

book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist

Here's some safety advice for taking trastuzumab:

1. **Follow Doctor's Orders:** Take trastuzumab exactly as our doctor tells you. Don’t skip doses or change the dosage without consulting them.

2. **Regular Check-ups:** our doctor will monitor you closely during treatment, especially your heart function. Attend all scheduled appointments.

3. **Report Side Effects:** Let our doctor know about any side effects, even if they seem minor. This helps them manage your treatment better.

4. **Avoid Herbal Supplements:** Don't take herbal supplements or alternative medicines without our doctor's approval, as they might interfere with trastuzumab.

5. **Stay Hydrated:** Drink plenty of fluids unless our doctor advises otherwise, especially if you experience diarrhea or vomiting.

6. **Practice Good Hygiene:** Wash your hands frequently to reduce the risk of infections, as trastuzumab can weaken your immune system.

7. **Listen to Your Body:** If you experience any unusual symptoms or feel unwell, contact our doctor immediately.

8. **Inform Other Healthcare Providers:** Make sure all healthcare providers you see are aware that you are taking trastuzumab, including dentists and pharmacists.

9. **Store Properly:** If you're given trastuzumab to take home, store it according to the instructions provided and keep it out of reach of children.

10. **Don't Share Medication:** Trastuzumab is prescribed specifically for you. Don't share it with others or use someone else's medication.

Remember, our healthcare team is there to support you throughout your treatment with trastuzumab. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to them for guidance and support.

Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist