Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine (By injection)
AY-doh tras-TOOZ-oo-mab em-TAN-seen
Drug classes
Antineoplastic Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Ado-trastuzumab emtansine injection is used to treat HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer (cancer that has spread to other parts of the body) in patients who have already received other medicines that did not work well. HER2 protein is produced by some breast tumors. Ado-trastuzumab emtansine interferes with the growth of this protein which also prevents tumor growth. The tumor cells will then be destroyed by the body.
This medicine is to be given only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
Missed dose: This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Some medicines can affect how ado-trastuzumab works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
Atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, voriconazole Blood thinner (including warfarin)When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to trastuzumab or ado-trastuzumab, or if you are pregnant.
Warnings
It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment and for 7 months after your last dose.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, bleeding problems, heart disease, heart failure, or lung disease.
Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
Serious liver problems Lung problems New or worsening heart failure Infusion reactions Increased risk of bleeding problemsYour doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Chest pain, trouble breathing, cough, uneven heartbeat
Chills, fever, fast heartbeat, flushing
Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting
Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet
Pain, redness, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed
Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness, nosebleeds
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Constipation, nausea
Tiredness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Kadcyla
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
