Medication Profile: Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine

Summary or Key Points

Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine (Brand name: Kadcyla) is used for treating certain types of breast cancer. It is designed for cancers that are HER2-positive and have either spread to other parts of the body or cannot be removed with surgery. Common side effects include fatigue, joint pain, and nausea. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice, and consider telemedicine for convenience and accessibility.

Names of Medication

Brand name: Kadcyla

Generic name: Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine

The generic name, here written in parenthesis, is the official name of the active ingredient in the medication, regardless of the brand name under which it’s sold.

Pharmacologic Category

Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine falls under the pharmacologic category of HER2/neu receptor antagonists. Other medications in this class include Pertuzumab (Perjeta) and Trastuzumab (Herceptin).

Dosing

Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine is indicated to treat the following condition in adults:

• HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: The standard dose is 3.6 mg/kg, administered as an intravenous infusion every 21 days. Always consult your doctor before adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine services provide an accessible and convenient way to discuss dosing concerns with a healthcare provider.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine is available as a lyophilized powder in single-dose vials of 100 mg and 160 mg for reconstitution and dilution for intravenous infusion.

Administration Instructions

Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion in your doctor’s office or clinic. It is not a medication taken orally at home. The infusion is usually given once every three weeks.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine can cause several side effects, though not everyone gets them. Here are some potential side effects along with their frequency:

• Fatigue (Very common)
• Joint pain (Very common)
• Nausea (Very common)
• Bleeding (Common)
• Thrombocytopenia (Low platelet count) (Common)
• Liver toxicity (Uncommon)

Contraindications

A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components.

Drug to Drug Interactions

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, specific drug interactions with Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine are not well documented. Always inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking.

Ado-Trastuzumab Emt ansine in Pregnancy

Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine is not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine while Breastfeeding

It is not known if Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication. Always consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine can vary greatly due to the nature of its administration in a clinical setting, and prices may change over time. Please consult a recent GoodRx coupon or your healthcare provider for the most accurate cost information.

Possible Alternatives

For HER2-positive Breast Cancer, alternatives may include other HER2 targeted therapies like Pertuzumab (Perjeta) and Trastuzumab (Herceptin), chemotherapy, or surgery. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise may also support overall health. Remember, it’s crucial to discuss any treatment alterations with your healthcare provider.

Recent Updates on Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine Research

Recent research has focused on the potential of Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine in treating other types of HER2-positive cancers, such as gastric cancer. Ongoing studies are also examining the medication’s effectiveness when combined with other treatments. To stay updated on the latest treatment options, always consult with your healthcare provider, and consider utilizing our telemedicine services for accessible and timely medical consultations.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.