Herceptin Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Herceptin, or trastuzumab injection, was developed by Genentech. The drug is a genetically-engineered cancer medication, available by prescription only. Herceptin targets a form of breast cancer called HER2+ which is highly aggressive. It may also be used for Her2+ gastric cancer of the stomach or the gastroesophageal junction.[1]
Hereceptin has a number of potentially severe and even fatal side effects. These range from serious heart and lung problems to shortness of breath, rapid weight gain, and dizziness.[1] About 2% of Herceptin patients develop congestive heart failure.[2]
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| Brand name for | Trastuzumab injection[1] |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Genentech[1] |
| Uses | To treat HER2+ breast cancer, metastatic beast cancer, and gastric cancer.[1] |
| Common side effects | Reduced appetite, pain in bones or muscles, insomnia, depression, flushing, nosebleeds, acne, changes in nails, stomach pain, heartburn, bowel movement issues[2] |
| Who should not take Herceptin | Women who are pregnant, nursing, or considering becoming pregnant.[1] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Herpcetin Side Effects
Herceptin has multiple side effects, some of them potentially dangerous. Common adverse reactions to Herceptin are exhaustion; fever; low white and red blood cell counts; low platelet counts; oral swelling; nasal swelling; upset stomach; respiratory infections; diarrhea; constipation, coughing; muscle pain; and a tingling, numb, or painful sensation in the legs, arms, hands and feet.[2]
Patients being treated with Herceptin for breast cancer may experience different side effects than those treated for stomach cancer. Stomach cancer patients are more likely to experience diarrhea; swelling of the mouth lining, mucous membranes, or nose and throat; weight loss; upper respiratory tract infections; low platelet counts; and changes in sense of taste. Breast cancer patients have commonly reported nausea, vomiting, infections, cough, shortness of breath, rash, and muscle pain.[1]
About Drug Side Effects
Herpcetin Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to Herceptin are uncommon. However, they can be serious and even fatal. Patients may demonstrate allergies to active ingredient trastuzumab or other, inactive ingredients in Herceptin such as benzyl alcohol. Patients allergic to mouse proteins may have a reaction, as Herceptin contains Chinese hamster ovary cell protein. Signs of a severe allergy include breathing problems, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, and itchy or rashy skin.[3]
Herpcetin Precautions and Warnings
- Injections of Herceptin can cause severe or even fatal heart issues.
- Herceptin can also have potentially dangerous interactions with radiation therapy to the chest, or anthracycline medications for cancer.
- Herceptin can cause dangerous reactions while the medication is being administered or up to a full day following treatment.
- Herceptin injections have the potential to cause serious lung damage.[2]
- When taken by pregnant women, Herceptin can cause harm or death to the fetus. Females of childbearing age are instructed to use birth control for at least six months following Herceptin treatment.
- In patients taking Herceptin in conjunction with chemotherapy, a decrease in white blood cell counts to serious and life-threatening levels can occur.[1]
- Herceptin is only effective on HER2-positive tumors[1]
- Herceptin can cause reactions with other medications or supplements. Therefore, patients are advised to inform their physicians of any other prescription or over-the-counter substances they are taking.[2]
Also See: Herceptin Coupons, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Zelboraf Side Effects, Yervoy Side Effects, Arimidex Side Effects, Arimidex Patient Assistance Programs, Boniva Side Effects, Marijuana and Cancer
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