Herceptin Ingredients and Usage

The active ingredient is Trastuzumab, a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that targets the extracellular domain of HER2. The 600mg vial is reconstituted and administered as an intravenous infusion every 3 weeks, with initial loading doses and subsequent maintenance therapy.

Herceptin is clinically indicated for:

• HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer
• Early HER2-positive breast cancer (adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment)
• HER2-positive metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma
• Combination therapy with chemotherapy for improved outcomes

How Does Herceptin Work?

Herceptin provides targeted anti-cancer action through HER2 receptor blockade:

1. HER2 Receptor Binding: Binds to extracellular domain of HER2 receptor
2. Signal Transduction Inhibition: Blocks HER2-mediated signaling pathways
3. Antibody-Dependent Cytotoxicity: Mediates immune-mediated cell destruction
4. Cell Cycle Arrest: Induces G1 phase arrest and inhibits cell proliferation

Herceptin Side Effects and Warnings

Common side effects include fever, chills, headache, diarrhea, nausea, and infusion-related reactions. Most adverse effects are manageable with appropriate premedication and monitoring.

Serious Considerations

1. Cardiotoxicity: May cause left ventricular dysfunction – monitor cardiac function regularly
2. Infusion Reactions: Can cause serious infusion reactions including anaphylaxis
3. Pulmonary Toxicity: Risk of serious pulmonary events including ARDS
4. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm – effective contraception required
5. HER2 Testing: Treatment should only be initiated in HER2-positive patients

Herceptin Storage Conditions

Herceptin Injection requires strict storage conditions:

• Store at 2°C to 8°C in refrigerator
• Protect from light – keep in original carton
• Do not freeze or shake
• Use reconstituted solution immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours
• Do not use if discolored or contains particles