Side Effects of Trastuzumab (Herceptin) Explained: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Trastuzumab, also known as Herceptin, is a widely prescribed medication for treating certain types of breast and stomach cancer. This powerful drug works by blocking the human growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein, which aids in the growth and survival of cancer cells. While Trastuzumab can be highly effective, it may cause various side effects ranging from mild to more serious.

What is Trastuzumab?

Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. It is primarily used to treat hormone receptor-negative breast cancer and stomach cancer. In cases where the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it might also be used alongside other cancer medicines.

Important Information and Considerations

Before undergoing Trastuzumab treatment, it's crucial to understand that pregnant women should not use this medication. If you become pregnant during or after treatment, consult your healthcare provider immediately as it could harm the unborn baby. Additionally, Trastuzumab may worsen heart failure, so patients with existing heart conditions should be closely monitored.

Some common side effects may occur during the injection, such as dizziness, nausea, fever, and chills. If any of these symptoms become severe or persist, contact your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects

Trastuzumab can cause a range of side effects, including:

Febrile Neutropenia - A condition characterized by fever and a decrease in white blood cells. Infection - Possible signs include fever, chills, or persistent cough. Asthenia - A feeling of tiredness or weakness. Dizziness - You may feel faint or lightheaded. Headache - Occurs in many patients during treatment. Nausea or Vomiting - Common gastrointestinal issues. Skin Rash - Redness or itching of the skin. Sore Throat - May cause discomfort or difficulty swallowing.

Other common side effects include:

Urinary Tract Infection Anemia Arthralgia - Joint pain. Depression Edema - Swelling in the feet or lower legs. Ostealgia - Pain in the bones. Paresthesia - Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. Sinusitis - Inflammation of the sinuses. Tachycardia - An increase in heart rate.

Less Common Side Effects

Less common side effects that may require medical attention include:

Bloody Noses - Occasional nosebleeds may occur. Cough and Hoarseness - Accompanied by fever or chills. Diarrhea Difficult or Labored Breathing Head Congestion Hoarseness or Other Voice Changes Increased Cough Joint Pain Loss of Appetite Nasal Congestion Pain or Tenderness Around the Eyes and Cheekbones

Other less common side effects include:

Shivering Sneezing Sweating Swelling of the Feet or Lower Legs Tightness in the Chest Trouble with Sleeping

Rare Side Effects

Severe and rare side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

Blue Lips and Fingernails Blurred Vision Chest Pain Confusion Large Hive-like Swelling on the Face, Eyelids, Lips, Tongue, Throat, Hands, Feet, or Sex Organs Pale Skin Redness of the Skin

Other rare side effects include:

Black Tarry Stools - Indicative of internal bleeding. Bloody or Cloudy Urine Unusual Bleeding or Bruising Weight Gain

Less Serious Side Effects

Some side effects may occur but usually do not require medical attention. These effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medication. Common ones include:

Difficulty in Moving Metalllic Taste in the Tongue Muscle Pain or Stiffness Pain Weight Loss

If any of these less serious side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Treatment with Trastuzumab (Herceptin) can be highly effective in managing certain types of cancer, but it comes with a potential side effect profile. Patients and caregivers should be attentive to any symptoms and report them promptly to their healthcare providers. Proper monitoring and management can help minimize the side effects and ensure the best possible outcomes.