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Trastuzumab

Pronounced

"trass-TOOZE-you-mob"

Common brand names:

Herceptin, Kanjinti

Uses

Trastuzumab is used to treat certain types of breast, stomach, or esophagus cancer. Trastuzumab belongs to a class of medications known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

This monograph is about the following trastuzumab products: trastuzumab, trastuzumab-anns, trastuzumab-dkst, trastuzumab-dttb, trastuzumab-pkrb, trastuzumab-qyyp, trastuzumab-strf.

How to Use This Medication

This medication is given by slow injection into a vein by a health care professional, usually once every week or once every 3 weeks. The first injection is given over at least 90 minutes.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, weight, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications (such as acetaminophen, diphenhydramine) for you to take before each dose to help prevent serious side effects. Follow your doctor's directions carefully.