Drug
Pertuzumab
Pronounced
"per-TOOZ-ue-mab"
Uses
Pertuzumab is used to treat breast cancer. Pertuzumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Warning
This medication may cause serious heart problems, including heart failure. The risk of heart problems is increased if you also use an anthracycline (such as doxorubicin). Your doctor may stop treatment with this medication if heart problems occur. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of heart failure (such as shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain).
Pertuzumab can cause serious (possibly fatal) harm to an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test before you start this medication. It is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control while using this medication and for 7 months after the last dose. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.
How to Use This Medication
This medication is given by a health care professional. It is injected slowly into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually once every 3 weeks. Your first infusion will be given over 60 minutes.
The dosage, the speed of your injection, and the length of time you receive pertuzumab is based on your medical condition, other treatments you are taking, and your response to pertuzumab treatment.
Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of this drug. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of infusion reactions such as chills, fever, headache, rash, vomiting, or weakness. Your doctor may give you other medications to help with these side effects or may slow down or stop your treatment for some time.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.