What is this medication for?

Trastuzumab is used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer and gastric cancer.

It is a monoclonal antibody which targets HER2, a certain type of protein on the surface of cancer cells, to control their growth.

How should I take/use this medication?

• Trastuzumab: It is given as an injection into your vein (intravenous) or into the fatty tissue under the skin (subcutaneous).
  

What precautions should I take?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.

• You are pregnant or planning for pregnancy.

  • You should use effective birth control during treatment and for 7 months after your last treatment.

• You are breastfeeding.

  • Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 7 months after your last treatment.

• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.

What are some common side-effects of this medication?

• Feeling tired and lack of energy

  • Do not drive or operate heavy machinery when you feel tired

• Flu-like symptoms e.g. headache, weakness, mild fever (<38° C)

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

• Allergic reactions. Please alert your nurse if you experience allergic reactions during your treatment. The symptoms of this include one or more of the following:

  • Chills, rigors

  • Facial flushing

  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue

  • Difficulty in breathing

  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

• Heart problems. Your doctor may arrange for a test to check your heart function once every few months while you are on this treatment. Symptoms of this include:

  • Persistent cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

  • Swelling of hand or leg

• Flu-like symptoms that worsen or do not go away