Product Description
Actionable & Authoritative Resources
For detailed prescribing information, dosage guidelines, and patient resources, consult these authoritative platforms:
- Mechanism of Action: Pertuzumab binds to a specific site on the HER2 receptor (subdomain II). This prevents the HER2 protein from pairing (dimerizing) with other HER receptors, ultimately stopping the cancer cells from growing and multiplying.
- Dosage Schedule: The 420 mg strength serves as a maintenance dose. It is typically administered after an initial 840 mg loading dose. The maintenance infusion takes 30 to 60 minutes and is repeated every 3 weeks.
- Indications: Used in early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer (before or after surgery) and metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer.
- Side Effects: Common side effects include diarrhea, hair loss (alopecia), nausea, fatigue, and a decrease in certain white blood cells (neutropenia). It may also cause infusion-related reactions and heart function issues (e.g., left ventricular dysfunction).
Important Safety Information
- Pregnancy Risk: Pertuzumab can cause embryo-fetal toxicity and birth defects. It is not recommended during pregnancy. Effective contraception must be used during treatment and for at least 6 months after the final dose.
- Heart Monitoring: Because of the risk of heart muscle damage, healthcare providers routinely monitor heart function before and during treatment.
- Administration: This medication must only be prepared and administered by a qualified healthcare professional in a clinical setting.