Pertuzumab is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer. It's a type of medicine called a monoclonal antibody, which is a special kind of protein that helps the body fight off cancer cells.
Here's how Pertuzumab works: Cancer cells often have proteins on their surface that help them grow and spread. Pertuzumab targets one of these proteins called HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2). HER2 is like a fuel for cancer cells – it helps them grow and multiply faster than normal cells. By blocking HER2, Pertuzumab slows down or even stops the growth of cancer cells, which can help shrink tumors and improve outcomes for people with cancer.
Doctors usually use Pertuzumab in combination with other cancer medications, like chemotherapy drugs or other targeted therapies. This combination approach is often more effective than using just one medication on its own.
Pertuzumab is typically given as an infusion into a vein (intravenously) by a healthcare provider in a hospital or clinic. The dose and frequency of Pertuzumab infusions depend on factors like the type and stage of cancer being treated, as well as the patient's overall health.
Like any medication, Pertuzumab can cause side effects. Some common side effects include:
1. **Diarrhea**: Some people may experience loose or watery stools while taking Pertuzumab. It's essential to stay hydrated and let our doctor know if you have severe or persistent diarrhea.
2. **Fatigue**: Feeling tired or weak is a common side effect of Pertuzumab. Getting plenty of rest and pacing yourself can help manage fatigue.
3. **Nausea and vomiting**: Some people may feel sick to their stomach or vomit after receiving Pertuzumab. Doctors can prescribe medications to help manage these side effects.
4. **Hair loss**: While not as common as with some other cancer medications, Pertuzumab can cause hair thinning or hair loss. Hair usually grows back once treatment is finished.
5. **Low white blood cell counts**: Pertuzumab can lower the number of white blood cells in the blood, which can increase the risk of infections. Doctors will monitor blood counts regularly during treatment and may adjust the dose of Pertuzumab if necessary.
It's important for patients receiving Pertuzumab to communicate with their healthcare team about any side effects they experience. Some side effects can be managed with medications or other interventions, so it's essential to address them promptly.
In summary, Pertuzumab is a monoclonal antibody medication used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer. By targeting a specific protein on cancer cells, Pertuzumab helps slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells, improving outcomes for people with cancer.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist
Pertuzumab
Pertuzumab is like a superhero medicine that fights a specific kind of villain called cancer cells, especially in breast cancer. These cancer cells have a special protein on their surface called HER2 that helps them grow and spread.
Now, Pertuzumab's superpower is that it can block this protein, HER2, from working properly. By doing this, it stops the cancer cells from getting the signal they need to grow and multiply. So, it's like putting a stop sign in front of the cancer cells, preventing them from causing more trouble in the body.
Doctors often use Pertuzumab along with other medicines to make the treatment even more powerful. Together, they form a team that's better at fighting the cancer and helping people get better.
In simple terms, Pertuzumab is a special medicine that blocks a protein on cancer cells, stopping them from growing and spreading, and helping to fight the cancer.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist