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Targeted therapy for breast cancer
By Mayo Clinic staffWomen whose breast cancers produce too much human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) — a protein that spurs the growth of breast cancer cells — may benefit from targeted therapy with a drug called trastuzumab (Herceptin).
Trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody, is designed to shut down the activity of HER2 proteins on breast cancer cells and halt the growth of those cells. This type of therapy is referred to as targeted therapy — or sometimes biological therapy — because it "targets" or zeros in specifically on cancer cells. Healthy cells aren't destroyed in the process, unlike what happens during chemotherapy.
Trastuzumab generally is used in conjunction with other adjuvant therapies, such as chemotherapy or hormone therapy. The drug is given through a vein (intravenously). The first dose takes about 90 minutes to administer, and then smaller maintenance doses are given over a 30-minute period, either weekly or once every three weeks. The optimal duration for therapy is still being investigated.
Side effects of trastuzumab
Most commonly, trastuzumab causes a fever or chills during the initial infusion. Other side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, weakness, trouble breathing and a skin rash. Side effects tend to diminish as treatment continues.
However, one serious side effect of trastuzumab is an increase in the risk of congestive heart failure. Fortunately for most people, heart damage caused by the drug is reversible. Although this risk is low, clinical trials to date don't provide long-term outcomes. The effects trastuzumab could have on your heart over time remain uncertain. After treatment, your doctor will need to monitor you for any signs or symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Targeted therapy for breast cancer: Pros and cons Other forms of hormone therapy for breast cancer
