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TRASTUZUMAB (tras TOO zoo mab) is a monoclonal antibody. It targets a protein called HER2. This protein is found in some stomach and breast cancers. This medicine can stop cancer cell growth. This medicine may be used with other cancer treatments.
This drug is given as an infusion into a vein. It is administered in a hospital or clinic by a specially trained health care professional.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. This medicine is not approved for use in children.
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or other health care professional as soon as possible:
breathing difficulties
chest pain or palpitations
cough
dizziness or fainting
fever or chills, sore throat
skin rash, itching or hives
swelling of the legs or ankles
unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or other health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
loss of appetite
headache
muscle aches
nausea
cyclophosphamide
doxorubicin
warfarin
It is important not to miss a dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
heart disease
heart failure
infection (especially a virus infection such as chickenpox, cold sores, or herpes)
lung or breathing disease, like asthma
recent or ongoing radiation therapy
an unusual or allergic reaction to trastuzumab, benzyl alcohol, or other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
Visit your doctor for checks on your progress. Report any side effects. Continue your course of treatment even though you feel ill unless your doctor tells you to stop.
Call your doctor or health care professional for advice if you get a fever, chills or sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. Try to avoid being around people who are sick.
You may experience fever, chills and shaking during your first infusion. These effects are usually mild and can be treated with other medicines. Report any side effects during the infusion to your health care professional. Fever and chills usually do not happen with later infusions.