Trastuzumab Emtansine
Information about Trastuzumab Emtansine
Trastuzumab emtansine uses
Trastuzumab Emtansine is used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), metastatic breast cancer and psoriasis.
How trastuzumab emtansine works
Trastuzumab Emtansine seeks out and latches onto cancer cells with a protein called HER2. HER2-positive cancer cells have a lot of this protein, which helps them grow quickly. Once Trastuzumab Emtansine attaches to a HER2-positive cell, it goes inside the cell and helps kill the cancer cell from the inside without affecting as many healthy cells around it.
Common side effects of trastuzumab emtansine
Nausea, Diarrhea, Headache, Vomiting, Constipation, Dryness in mouth, Abdominal pain, Fatigue, Fever, Weakness, Urinary tract infection, Low blood platelets, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness of feet and hand), Hemorrhage, Nosebleeds, Cough, Breathlessness, Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth), Increased transaminase level in blood, Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain, Joint pain, Muscle pain
Available Medicine for Trastuzumab Emtansine
Expert advice for Trastuzumab Emtansine
- Make sure to attend all scheduled infusion sessions for maximum benefits.
- If you experience side effects like fatigue, nausea, or muscle pain, report them to your doctor. Early management can keep you comfortable throughout treatment.
- Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet can help you manage side effects such as nausea and fatigue. Opt for light, nutritious meals and avoid greasy or heavy foods.
- This treatment is not safe during pregnancy, so women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during and for several months after treatment. Consult your doctor for guidance on safe contraceptive options.
- Fatigue is a common side effect, so prioritize rest and pace your daily activities. Gentle exercise, such as walking or stretching, may help boost energy levels without overexerting yourself.
Frequently asked questions for Trastuzumab Emtansine
Trastuzumab Emtansine
Q. What is Trastuzumab Emtansine used for?
Trastuzumab Emtansine is used to treat HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer by focusing specifically on HER2-positive cancer cells to slow down or stop their growth. It delivers the chemotherapy directly inside the cell, which helps limit damage to healthy cells and increases the effectiveness of the treatment.
Q. How is Trastuzumab Emtansine administered?
Trastuzumab Emtansine is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion in a hospital or clinic setting, usually once every three weeks. Depending on your treatment plan, each session may last 30–90 minutes.
Q. Can I take Trastuzumab Emtansine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
No, Trastuzumab Emtansine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may harm the unborn baby or pass into breast milk. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for several months after.