HERCEPTIN (TRASTUZUMAB) Flashcards
What is the common indication for Herceptin?
Answer: Herceptin is commonly used to treat breast cancer that is HER2-positive, meaning that the cancer cells have too much of the protein HER2 on their surface.
What is the normal maintenance dose for Herceptin?
Answer: The normal maintenance dose for Herceptin is based on the patient’s body weight and medical condition and is usually administered by a healthcare professional.
What is the drug class of Herceptin?
Answer: Herceptin belongs to the class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies.
What are the possible optimization issues when taking Herceptin?
Answer: Possible optimization issues with Herceptin include the risk of adverse effects such as infusion reactions, heart damage, and pulmonary toxicity. Dose adjustments may also be necessary based on individual patient factors such as age, weight, and kidney function.
What are the common side effects of Herceptin?
Answer: Common side effects of Herceptin include fever, chills, headache, and muscle pain. It can also cause weakness, fatigue, and heart problems.
What should pharmacists lookout for when patients take Herceptin?
Answer: Pharmacists should monitor patients for signs of adverse reactions such as infusion reactions, heart damage, and pulmonary toxicity. They should also be aware of potential drug interactions and counsel patients on the importance of adhering to the dosing schedule. To minimize the risk of adverse effects, patients should be advised to receive Herceptin only under the supervision of a healthcare professional and to report any symptoms or changes in their health immediately.
