Healthcare: Cancer Care

Immunotherapy

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Note: Listed below are the drugs used in immunotherapy and their most common side effects. Other side effects may occur. Please report any persistent or severe problems to your physician.

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Herceptin (Trastuzumab)

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Herceptin belongs to a newer group of medicines called monoclonal antibodies. Herceptin is indicated for treatment, either alone or with chemotherapy, in women with high levels of HER2 proteins on their cancer cells. It is used to treat selected patients with breast cancer. Herceptin is given in the vein.

Possible Side Effects

  • Flu-like symptoms including fever and chilling. Medications such as Tylenol or ibuprofen can be given to decrease these effects.
  • Achiness and pain at site of tumor
  • Changes in heart muscle function - requires careful monitoring
  • Headache
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Less Common Side Effect

  • Skin rash