Description

Herceptin (Trastuzumab) 600 mg/5 ml Injection in Pakistan – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects

Herceptin, generically known as Trastuzumab, is a monoclonal antibody used as a targeted therapy for HER2-positive breast cancer and HER2-positive gastric cancer. In Pakistan, it is marketed by Roche Pakistan Pvt Ltd in a 600 mg/5 ml vial formulation.

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Product Information

• Brand Name: Herceptin

• Generic Name: Trastuzumab

• Strength & Formulation: 600 mg/5 ml Injection

• Pack Size: 1 Vial

• Manufacturer: Roche Pakistan Pvt Ltd

• Category: Antineoplastic Monoclonal Antibodies

• Storage: Refrigerate at 2°C – 8°C, do not freeze

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How Herceptin Works

Herceptin is a targeted therapy that binds specifically to HER2 receptors on cancer cells.

• Blocks Cancer Growth Signals: Prevents HER2 receptors from sending signals that trigger uncontrolled cancer cell division.

• Activates Immune System: Marks cancer cells for destruction through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).

• Prevents HER2 Shedding: Helps maintain receptor integrity, improving treatment outcomes.

This dual mechanism helps slow tumor progression and improve patient survival rates.

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Indications & Uses

Herceptin is prescribed for:

• Early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer (as adjuvant therapy to reduce recurrence).

• Metastatic breast cancer (alone or in combination with chemotherapy such as paclitaxel).

• HER2-positive gastric and gastroesophageal cancers, especially in advanced stages.

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Dosage & Administration

Herceptin is administered via intravenous infusion under medical supervision.

• Breast Cancer:

  • Loading Dose: 4 mg/kg over 90 minutes.

  • Maintenance: 2 mg/kg weekly or 6 mg/kg every 3 weeks.

• Metastatic Gastric Cancer:

  • Loading Dose: 8 mg/kg over 90 minutes.

  • Maintenance: 6 mg/kg every 3 weeks.

Treatment Duration: Typically up to 1 year, depending on clinical guidelines and patient response.

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Safety & Precautions

• Cardiac Monitoring: Risk of heart problems, especially with anthracyclines. Regular echocardiograms or ECHO are recommended.

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Contraindicated due to serious fetal risks (oligohydramnios, skeletal abnormalities). Avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding during treatment and for 7 months after the last dose.

• Infusion Reactions: May cause fever, chills, allergic reactions; monitoring during infusion is essential.

• Tumor Lysis Syndrome: Patients with bulky tumors may require closer monitoring.

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Diet & Lifestyle Guidance During Treatment

While no specific foods directly interfere with Herceptin, maintaining a balanced diet supports overall health.

Foods to Avoid:

• Sugary Foods: Sodas, candies, pastries, refined carbs (white bread, pasta, rice).

• High-Fat Foods: Fried foods, processed snacks, margarine, packaged baked goods.

• Alcohol: May interfere with treatment and increase cancer risk.

• High-Copper Foods: Liver, shellfish (excess copper may promote cancer progression).

• Processed Meats: Linked with higher cancer risk.

• Unwashed Produce: To reduce risk of infections.

Foods to Prefer:

• Antioxidant-rich foods: Citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens.

• Lean Proteins: Fish, poultry, legumes.

• Whole Grains & Fiber: Brown rice, oats, quinoa.

• Healthy Fats: Olive oil, nuts, seeds.

• Hydration: Adequate fluid intake to manage treatment side effects.

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Side Effects

Like all cancer therapies, Herceptin can cause side effects.
Common: Nausea, fatigue, fever, diarrhea, skin rash, infusion reactions.
Serious: Heart complications, lung issues, severe allergic reactions.

Patients are advised to report any unusual symptoms promptly to their oncologist.

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Patient Experience & Effectiveness

• Many patients report tumor reduction and improved survival outcomes.

• Side effects vary; while some experience manageable fatigue, others require closer monitoring due to cardiac effects.

• Quality of life improvements are noted when cancer progression is slowed or recurrence prevented.

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Storage Guidelines

• Store in a refrigerator at 2°C – 8°C.

• Do not freeze.

• Once prepared, use immediately or within 24 hours under refrigeration.

• Do not shake; swirl gently to mix.