Herceptin (trastuzumab) is a targeted therapy used to treat HER2-positive breast and stomach cancers. It can cause a range of side effects, from mild to serious, which can vary depending on the condition being treated and whether it’s used alone or with other therapies[1][3][5].
More common side effects include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Rash
- Infection, including upper respiratory infection (such as the common cold)
- Difficulty sleeping
- Mouth sores
- Altered sense of taste
- Weight loss
- Pain (back, bones, joints, muscles, or abdomen)
- Low levels of red or white blood cells (anemia, neutropenia)
- Low platelet count
- Muscle or body aches
- Infusion reactions (such as fever, chills, shortness of breath, rash, or swelling occurring during or soon after the infusion)
These side effects are most frequently reported in people receiving Herceptin for HER2-positive breast or stomach cancer and are often mild to moderate, typically occurring during the initial treatment cycles[1][3][4].
Serious side effects may include:
- Heart problems (including heart failure, high blood pressure, arrhythmias)
- Severe infusion reactions (such as difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, or severe allergic reactions)
- Severe infections due to lowered blood counts
- Lung problems, such as shortness of breath or pneumonia
- Severe allergic reactions
- Fluid retention (swelling of legs, hands, or face)
Herceptin has a boxed warning (the most serious warning from the FDA) for infusion reactions and heart problems, which can require immediate medical attention[5].
Other side effects noted in research studies:
- Back pain and undefined pain
- Myalgia (muscle pain)
- Asthenia (weakness)
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Nosebleeds and increased lacrimation (tearing)
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Limb or peripheral edema (swelling)
These effects may become more common with longer-term use and when used with other medications (such as chemotherapy)[6].
Most mild side effects are temporary and resolve with time, although some may persist or become bothersome. Patients are advised to talk to their doctor or pharmacist if they experience side effects or have concerns about them. Severe side effects, particularly heart-related issues or infusion reactions, should be reported immediately to a healthcare provider[3][5].
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