What is Pertuzumab?
Pertuzumab is used in conjunction with other drugs (transtuzumab and docetaxel) to treat HER2-related breast cancer. Pertuzumab is also employed for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.
Side effects of Pertuzumab
See a doctor immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as symptoms of hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.
Certain side effects can occur when you inject. Contact your physician immediately when you feel tired, weak, or nauseous, or if you notice symptoms such as a rapid beat, headache, fever, chills, muscle pain, or an unusual sensation in the mouth.
Pertuzumab may cause serious side effects. Contact your physician immediately in the event that you experience:
- The feeling of dizziness, heartbeats that pound, or a fluttering heartbeat;
- A new or more severe new or being worse or breathlessness;
- Swelling in your lower legs;
- Low blood cell counts, fever chills, mouth sores, open sores on the skin, abnormal bleeding, pale skin, cold feet and hands being lightheaded, or
- Signs of tumor cell breakdown: confusion, weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, fast or slow heart rate, decreased urination, tingling in your hands and feet, or around your mouth.
It is possible that your cancer treatment could be delayed or discontinued permanently when you experience certain negative side consequences.
Common adverse symptoms are more likely to happen, like:
- Nausea, diarrhea;
- Temporary reduction in hair;
- High fever, low blood cell count;
- Tiredness;
- Rashes; or
- Numbness, tingling, or burning discomfort in your hands or feet
This isn't an exhaustive list of all the side effects. Other side effects could occur. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You may report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Pertuzumab may cause birth defects or even death for the baby that is still being born. Don't use it if you are expecting. Do not become pregnant while taking pertuzumab for at least seven months following the last dose.
Pertuzumab can cause life-threatening heart problems. Consult your physician immediately when you experience a recent or more severe cough, breathlessness, or swelling of your legs in the lower part of your body.
Before taking this medication
Pertuzumab is not a good choice if you have an allergy to it or are breastfeeding or pregnant.
Inform your doctor if you have ever suffered from:
- Congestive heart failure heart rhythm disorder
- Untreated or uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension);
- A heart attack; or
- The radiation treatment you receive in the chest area
Do not take pertuzumab when you are expecting. It can cause birth defects or even death for your unborn child. Utilize efficient contraception to stop pregnancy when you are taking pertuzumab along with trastuzumab. Continue this treatment for a minimum of 7 months following the end of your treatment. Inform your doctor immediately in case you fall pregnant.
If you're pregnant and you are a registered mother, your name could be included on the registry for pregnancy to monitor any effects that pertuzumab has on the child.
It is not recommended to breastfeed during treatment with trastuzumab. This is for as long as 7 months after the last dose. Talk to your doctor regarding any risks.
How to take Pertuzumab?
Pertuzumab is injected as an infusion into the veins. Your healthcare professional will give the injection. Pertuzumab is typically given every 3 weeks. Follow the instructions of your physician. Pertuzumab can cause life-threatening heart problems. The function of your heart may require checking before beginning treatment with pertuzumab and throughout your treatment.
Do I be concerned if I miss a dose?
Consult your physician for the appropriate treatment in the event that you don't make an appointment to receive the pertuzumab shot.
What will happen if I take excessively?
Since the medication is prescribed by a health specialist in a medical setting it is highly unlikely for an overdose to occur.
What should be avoided?
Follow the instructions of your physician regarding any restrictions regarding drinks, food, or any activity.
Interaction with other drugs
Other medications can affect pertuzumab, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.
