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Trastuzumab Deruxtecan
INFORMATION ABOUT TRASTUZUMAB DERUXTECAN
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan Uses
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is used in the treatment of stomach cancer and metastatic breast cancer.
How Trastuzumab Deruxtecan works
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan finds cancer cells that have a lot of the HER2 protein on their surface. These HER2-positive cells grow and multiply faster than normal cells. Once it attaches to the HER2-positive cancer cell, it’s pulled inside. Inside the cancer cell, Trastuzumab Deruxtecan causes damage and kills the cancer cell directly without affecting nearby healthy cells.
Common side effects of Trastuzumab Deruxtecan
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Nausea, Fever, Fatigue, Vomiting, Hair loss, Constipation, Diarrhea, Decreased appetite, Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain, Abdominal pain, Decreased white blood cell count, Decreased hemoglobin, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), Low blood platelets, Increased aspartate aminotransferase, Increased alanine aminotransferase, Increased alkaline phosphatase level in blood, Decreased potassium level in blood, Increased bilirubin in the blood
CONTENT DETAILS
Written By
Dr. Sakshi Jain
MS, BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Rajeev Sharma
MBA, MBBS
Last updated
07 Nov 2024 | 07:44 AM (UTC)
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Medicine brands for Trastuzumab Deruxtecan
Expert advice for Trastuzumab Deruxtecan
  • For best results, ensure Trastuzumab Deruxtecan infusions are received consistently every three weeks without missed doses.
  • Report any side effects, even mild ones, to your doctor so they can help you prevent or manage them.
  • Since Trastuzumab Deruxtecan can lower your white blood cell count, minimizing your exposure to infections is important. Wash your hands frequently, avoid crowded places when possible, and clean any minor cuts or wounds.
  • Fatigue is a common side effect with Trastuzumab Deruxtecan, so avoid strenuous activities, especially if your energy levels are low. However, light activities like short walks or stretching can boost energy levels and reduce fatigue.
  • Drink plenty of water and eat balanced, nutritious meals to help support your immune system.
  • Cancer treatment can be challenging, so remember that emotional support is just as important as physical care. Reach out to family, friends, or support groups, and let your doctor know if you need additional resources to support your mental health during treatment.
Frequently asked questions for Trastuzumab Deruxtecan
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is a targeted cancer therapy specifically used to treat HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer and HER2-positive stomach (gastric) cancer. It is particularly helpful for patients whose cancer has spread or returned after previous treatments.
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan targets the HER2 protein found on certain cancer cells. It combines an antibody with a chemotherapy drug, binding to HER2-positive cancer cells and delivering chemotherapy directly into the cell. This helps kill the cancer cells more effectively while sparing healthy cells.
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is given through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a doctor or a nurse, typically every three weeks. It is vital to follow this schedule to allow the treatment to work optimally.
Yes. It’s essential to attend all scheduled treatments and follow any advice from your doctor. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and informing your doctor about any side effects or symptoms can also help you manage the treatment more effectively.
Avoid alcohol, as it may stress your liver, which is processing the medication. Also, avoid activities that increase the risk of injury, as low blood cell counts can make infections more dangerous. Discuss any new medications or supplements with your doctor to ensure they don’t interfere with your treatment.
Yes, some patients may experience serious side effects. One rare but severe side effect is interstitial lung disease (ILD), which causes inflammation in the lungs. Symptoms of ILD include coughing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is not safe for pregnant women, as it may harm the unborn baby, and breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment. Women should discuss pregnancy prevention options with their doctors before starting Trastuzumab Deruxtecan.
The duration of treatment varies depending on individual responses and tolerance to the medication. Your doctor will monitor your progress and decide the best duration for your treatment with Trastuzumab Deruxtecan.
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is not recommended for people with certain lung conditions or severe allergic reactions to trastuzumab-based drugs. It is also not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Your doctor will review your medical history to determine if Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is appropriate for you.