Patient Handout: Pertuzumab
What is Pertuzumab?
Pertuzumab is a medication used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer and HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. It works by blocking the HER2 receptor, which is involved in the growth and spread of certain types of cancer cells. Pertuzumab is often used in combination with other cancer medications, such as trastuzumab and chemotherapy, to help improve treatment outcomes.
How Does Pertuzumab Work?
Pertuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the HER2 receptor, a protein that can be found in excess on the surface of some breast cancer cells. When the HER2 receptor is overactive, it stimulates cancer cell growth. Pertuzumab works by binding to the HER2 receptor, preventing it from sending growth signals to the cancer cells. This helps slow or stop the growth of the cancer.
How is Pertuzumab Given?
- Form: Pertuzumab is given by intravenous (IV) infusion.
- Dosage: The exact dosage and schedule will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your specific condition. It is typically given in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy.
- Administration: Pertuzumab is administered in a healthcare setting (hospital, clinic, or infusion center) by a trained nurse or doctor. The infusion is given through an IV, usually over a period of 30 to 60 minutes.
- Treatment Schedule: Pertuzumab is generally given once every 3 weeks after the initial loading dose. Your doctor will determine the appropriate schedule for your treatment.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, pertuzumab can cause side effects. Some of the side effects may be serious, so it’s important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any new or unusual symptoms.
Common Side Effects:
- Infusion-Related Reactions: During or shortly after the infusion, some patients may experience reactions such as fever, chills, nausea, fatigue, or headache. Your healthcare team will monitor you closely during the infusion.
- Diarrhea: Pertuzumab can cause diarrhea. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, and let your doctor know if diarrhea becomes severe or persistent.
- Fatigue: You may feel tired or weak during treatment. Resting and staying hydrated may help, but inform your doctor if the fatigue is severe.
- Rash: A skin rash is a common side effect. It may be mild or more severe, and you should report any new or unusual rashes to your healthcare provider.
- Hair Thinning: Hair thinning or hair loss can occur during treatment. This is usually temporary, and hair often grows back after treatment ends.
Serious Side Effects:
- Heart Problems: Pertuzumab can cause heart problems, including changes in heart function. Your doctor will monitor your heart with regular tests during treatment. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience shortness of breath, swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet, or irregular heartbeats.
- Infections: Pertuzumab can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. If you experience fever, chills, sore throat, or unusual weakness, contact your doctor immediately.
- Severe Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to pertuzumab. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rash, or itching. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
- Lung Problems: In rare cases, pertuzumab can cause lung issues, including difficulty breathing or coughing. If you experience these symptoms, inform your healthcare provider promptly.
Precautions Before Taking Pertuzumab
Before starting treatment with pertuzumab, inform your doctor about:
- Heart Conditions: If you have a history of heart disease or heart problems (such as heart failure or irregular heart rhythms), let your doctor know, as pertuzumab can affect heart function.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pertuzumab may harm an unborn baby. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. Effective birth control is recommended during treatment, and you should not breastfeed while receiving pertuzumab.
- Other Medications: Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with pertuzumab.
- Lung or Respiratory Issues: If you have a history of lung disease, inform your doctor, as pertuzumab can rarely cause lung-related side effects.
What to Avoid While Taking Pertuzumab
- Infections: Pertuzumab can lower your immune system’s ability to fight infections. Avoid close contact with people who are sick or have infections, and make sure to wash your hands frequently.
- Live Vaccines: Avoid receiving live vaccines while on pertuzumab, as your immune system may not respond properly. Talk to your doctor before receiving any vaccines during treatment.
- Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it may interfere with the metabolism of some medications.
Regular Monitoring
Your healthcare provider will monitor your health regularly throughout treatment with pertuzumab. This may include:
- Heart function tests: Your doctor will perform regular tests to monitor your heart’s health, such as echocardiograms or MUGA scans, especially if you are receiving pertuzumab in combination with other HER2-targeted therapies.
- Blood tests: To check for infections or changes in your blood counts, as well as other potential side effects.
- Infusion monitoring: Because infusion reactions are common, your healthcare team will monitor you closely during and after the infusion for any immediate side effects.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- Fever, chills, sore throat, or signs of infection
- Shortness of breath, swelling in the legs or ankles, or chest pain (possible heart problems)
- Trouble breathing, persistent cough, or new lung-related symptoms
- Signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, rash, or itching)
- Severe diarrhea, rash, or skin reactions
- Any other unusual or concerning symptoms
Disclaimer:
This handout is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding treatment and care. For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.