Trastuzumab
Generic Details
Generic Name
Trastuzumab
Other Names
- Herceptin
- Herclon
- Biceltis
Drug Class
- Monoclonal Antibody
- HER2/neu receptor antagonist
Chemical Formula
C6472H10048N1720O2038S42
Molecular Weight
145531.9 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Binds to HER2 receptors, blocking the proliferation of tumor cells.
Indications
- Breast cancer
- Gastric cancer
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- Initial dose: 4 mg/kg intravenously over 90 minutes, followed by weekly doses of 2 mg/kg
- Higher doses may be used in some cases
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosing based on body surface area
Geriatric Dosage
- No specific dosage adjustments needed
Side Effects
- Cardiotoxicity
- Infusion reactions
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to trastuzumab
Pregnancy Category
- Category D
Lactation Safety
- May excrete into human milk, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- None documented
Overdose Symptoms
- Increased risk of cardiomyopathy
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, manage symptoms and provide supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Refrigerate at 2-8°C, do not freeze
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Not applicable, administered via intravenous route
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body and concentrates in HER2 overexpressing tumors
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor cardiac function during treatment
- Caution in patients with a history of heart disease
Warnings
- Increased risk of heart failure
- Can cause fetal harm if used during pregnancy