Uses of undefined

Pertuzumab is an active substance for treating metastatic breast cancer in adult patients. It is given either before surgery as a neoadjuvant therapy or after surgery as an adjuvant therapy based on the condition and treatment plan. This medication helps in controlling the spread of cancer. 

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Pertuzumab is available as an injection and administered intravenously once every three weeks. Follow your physician's instructions. Your doctor will determine the frequency and dose of administration because it varies for each person depending on the disease condition. 

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Pertuzumab can harm unborn babies. Before starting this treatment, it is important to consult your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or think you may be pregnant. While undergoing treatment, use effective contraception and continue it for six months after stopping treatment. If you take recently or plan to take any other medications, inform your doctor. These medicines should not be given to patients under the age of 18. Pertuzumab may cause a reduction in white blood cells with fever (Febrile neutropenia). 

Precautions

Pertuzumab can cause heart problems like heart failure, serious irregular heartbeats, and uncontrolled high blood pressure. So inform your doctor about your medical history before starting with the treatment. Inform your doctor If you have ever taken chemotherapy medication. This drug may cause allergic reactions. Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems and heart-based diseases.

Side Effects

Some common side effects caused by Pertuzumab are bleeding of the nose, cough, heartburn, dry skin, itchiness or acne-like skin, joint pain, muscle pain and weakness, constipation, reduced appetite, diarrhea, alopecia, nausea, fatigue, rash, numbness, weakness, decreased in the number of red blood cells and sore throat. Some serious side effects likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Pertuzumab injection are persistent diarrhea, allergic and anaphylactic reactions, heart problems, shortness of breath, tumor lysis syndrome, kidney problems, and seizures.

Word Of Advice

Pertuzumab can make you feel so dizzy. So avoid driving or handling machines after taking this medication. If you experience any symptoms mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately. 

Frequently Asked Question

• Does Pertuzumab cause nail changes?
• Yes, Pertuzumab can cause changes in nails. One of the common side effects is inflammation in the nail bed. Consult your doctor if you observe this symptom.

• What if I stop taking Pertuzumab?
• Pertuzumab has to be taken as per the doctor's advice. Only stop getting the infusion if it advised by the doctor.

• Does Pertuzumab cause any heart problems?
• Pertuzumab can damage the heart muscle and increase the risk of heart problems. Notify your doctor if you have any history of heart problems.

• How is Pertuzumab Injection administered?
• Pertuzumab is available as a vial which is administered intravenously through the vein. It will be given to you by a healthcare professional.

• How does Pertuzumab work?
• Pertuzumab attaches itself to the specific target on the cancer cells known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. Pertuzumab may destroy cancer cells or cause their growth to be delayed or stopped when it binds to them.

• Is Pertuzumab medicine safe for pregnancy?
• Pertuzumab is unsafe for pregnancy. This medicine can harm unborn babies. Before starting this treatment, it is important to consult your doctor. 

• Is it okay to take new medication while taking Pertuzumab?
• Inform your doctor about the list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use because  certain medications may interact with Pertuzumab and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.

• What should I tell my doctor before taking the Pertuzumab injection?
• Inform your doctor about the history of your high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, and other heart-related problems.

• Should I use contraception even after the treatment with Pertuzumab?
• Yes, Using contraception during and after treatment with Pertuzumab injection for at least six months is necessary.