Trastuzumab

This page provides brief information on Trastuzumab, covering its prescribed use, recommended dosage and administration, mechanism of action, associated brands and their strengths, precautionary warnings, and typical side effects.

Context and Approval Date

Trastuzumab was first approved by the U.S. FDA in September 1998 for the treatment of HER2‑positive breast cancer. Its indications have since expanded to include metastatic gastric and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma.

Mechanism of Action of Trastuzumab

  • Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the HER2 receptor (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2).
  • HER2 is overexpressed in certain cancers, driving tumor growth and progression.
  • By binding to HER2, Trastuzumab blocks downstream signaling, promotes antibody‑dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), and slows tumor proliferation.

    • All Substitutes

    View All
    Product Packaging Size Manufacturer Price
    Hertraz 440mg Injection 1 Vial ERIS LIFESCIENCES LIMITED INR 13900
    Vivitra 440mg Injection 1 Vial Zydus Cadila INR 7100
    Trasturel 440mg Injection 1 Vial RELIANCE LIFE SCIENCES INR 9000
    Eleftha 440mg Injection 1 Vial INTAS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD INR 7500

    Uses of Trastuzumab

    Trastuzumab is prescribed for HER2‑positive cancers, including:
  • Early‑stage breast cancer
  • Gastric cancer
  • Metastatic breast cancer
  • Gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma

    • Administration Guidelines and Dosage Options

    Administration Guide

  • Administered by intravenous (IV) infusion.
  • Initial loading dose: 8 mg/kg, followed by 6 mg/kg every 3 weeks (or 4 mg/kg followed by 2 mg/kg weekly, depending on regimen).
  • Infusion should be given under medical supervision with monitoring for infusion reactions.

    • Available Dosage Options

  • Lyophilized powder vials (e.g., 150 mg, 440 mg).
  • Reconstituted with sterile water for injection.
  • Cold‑chain storage required (2–8 °C).

    • How Trastuzumab Works

    Administration Guide

  • Administered by intravenous (IV) infusion.
  • Initial loading dose: 8 mg/kg, followed by 6 mg/kg every 3 weeks (or 4 mg/kg followed by 2 mg/kg weekly, depending on regimen).
  • Infusion should be given under medical supervision with monitoring for infusion reactions.

    • Available Dosage Options

  • Lyophilized powder vials (e.g., 150 mg, 440 mg).
  • Reconstituted with sterile water for injection.
  • Cold‑chain storage required (2–8 °C).

    • Information about Trastuzumab

    How Trastuzumab Works

    Trastuzumab Injection blocks HER2 receptor signaling, reducing tumor cell proliferation and survival. It also recruits immune effector cells to destroy HER2‑positive cancer cells via ADCC.

    Common Side Effects of Trastuzumab

  • Fever, chills during infusion
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Fatigue, headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Rash
  • Storage: Store in a refrigerator at 2–8 °C; do not freeze.
  • Administration: Take Trastuzumab exactly as prescribed; do not skip or delay doses.
  • Vaccinations: Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
  • Monitoring: Inform your doctor if you develop fever, persistent cough, shortness of breath, or any signs of infection.
  • Blood Tests: Regular cardiac and blood tests may be required to monitor heart function and overall health during therapy.

    • Warnings, Precautions, and Side Effects

    Warnings

  • Risk of cardiotoxicity (congestive heart failure, decreased left ventricular ejection fraction).
  • Infusion‑related reactions (fever, chills, dyspnea).
  • Pulmonary toxicity (rare but serious).
  • Pregnancy: contraindicated due to risk of fetal harm.

    • Precautions

  • Baseline and periodic cardiac monitoring (echocardiogram or MUGA scan).
  • Monitor for infusion reactions; premedication may be required.
  • Avoid use in patients with severe cardiac dysfunction.
  • Store at 2–8 °C; do not freeze.

    • Common Side Effects

  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Infusion reactions

    • Serious but Rare Side Effects

  • Severe heart failure
  • Pulmonary toxicity
  • Severe allergic reactions

    • FAQ - Trastuzumab

    1What is Trastuzumab 440 mg Injection used for?
    Trastuzumab 440 mg Injection is prescribed for HER2‑positive breast cancer and gastric cancer. It helps slow tumor growth and improve survival when used alone or with chemotherapy.
    2How is Trastuzumab 440 mg Injection administered?
    It is given by intravenous infusion (IV) under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency depend on the type and stage of cancer.
    3Can international patients order Trastuzumab 440 mg Injection?
    Yes. We provide secure export supply of Trastuzumab 440 mg Injection to patients and healthcare institutions worldwide, subject to valid prescription and import regulations.
    4What documents are required for export patients?
    Foreign patients must provide a doctor’s prescription, patient ID proof, and in some cases import permits depending on the destination country’s regulations.
    5How should Trastuzumab 440 mg Injection be stored during shipping?
    It must be kept refrigerated at 2–8 °C and never frozen. Export shipments are packed in temperature‑controlled containers to maintain product integrity.
    6What precautions should patients take before starting Trastuzumab?
    Patients should undergo baseline cardiac evaluation, as Trastuzumab may affect heart function. Inform your doctor about any history of heart disease or hypertension.
    7What are the common side effects of Trastuzumab 440 mg Injection?
    Common side effects include fever, chills, nausea, fatigue, and headache. Serious but rare side effects include heart failure and severe infusion reactions.
    8How can foreign patients get support for Trastuzumab supply?
    Export patients can contact our oncology support team for guidance on documentation, shipping timelines, and cold‑chain handling to ensure safe delivery.

    References

  • Roche Products Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Jan 2022] [Accessed on 21 Nov 2022] Patient Information Leaflet – Trastuzumab (Herceptin) 2022
  • Genentech Inc, [Revised on Feb 2021] [Accessed on 21 Nov 2022] Prescribing Information – Trastuzumab (Herceptin) 2021
  • Anton Wellstein, Giuseppe Giaccone, Michael B. Atkins, and Edward A. Sausville, Pathway‑Targeted Therapies: Monoclonal Antibodies, Protein Kinase Inhibitors, and Various Small Molecules, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, 2018, 1203‑1236

    • Medical Disclaimer

    The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Trastuzumab Injection should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking treatment based on the information provided on this website.

    Biosyn Pharmaceuticals supplies prescription medicines in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. International orders may require a valid prescription and are subject to the import regulations of the destination country. Patients should consult their healthcare provider before purchasing or using any prescription medicine.