Enhertu (Trastuzumab Deruxtecan)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Enhertu Used For?
Enhertu is a medication designed to treat several types of cancers by targeting specific cancer cells.
Primary Uses
Enhertu is used for HER2-positive breast cancer, HER2-low breast cancer, HER2-positive stomach cancer, other HER2-positive solid tumors, and non-small cell lung cancer with a specific HER2 mutation.
How It Works
Enhertu combines a monoclonal antibody with a drug that kills cancer cells by delivering the treatment directly to cells that express HER2 proteins or have a HER2 mutation.
Good to know: Enhertu is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Enhertu
Enhertu is administered in a healthcare setting by a qualified professional.
Dosage Instructions
The recommended dose for HER2-positive or HER2-low breast cancer is 5.4 mg per kg of body weight every 3 weeks. For HER2-positive stomach cancer, the dose is 6.4 mg per kg every 3 weeks.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss an appointment for your infusion, contact your doctor immediately to reschedule.
Important: Do not double the dose if you miss an appointment.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- nausea
- fatigue
- vomiting
- hair loss
- constipation
- decreased appetite
- diarrhea
- cough
- abdominal pain
- headache
- fever
- infections of the respiratory tract
- mouth sores
- difficulty breathing
- indigestion
- severe nosebleeds
- lung problems
- rash
- muscle and bone pain
- weight loss
- anemia
- neutropenia
- thrombocytopenia
- leukopenia
- lymphopenia
- increased liver enzymes
- hypokalemia
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- cough, shortness of breath, fever (possible lung problems)
- chills, fever, mouth sores, stomach pain (possible infection)
- new or worsening shortness of breath, swelling, irregular heartbeat (possible heart problems)
Important Warnings
There are specific warnings associated with Enhertu that patients should be aware of.
Who Should Not Take Enhertu
Enhertu is not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have lung, kidney, heart, or blood problems before starting Enhertu.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Enhertu is not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. Effective contraception is advised during treatment and for several months after.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
It's important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
Alcohol & Driving
Patients should exercise caution regarding alcohol consumption and driving while on Enhertu.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol use while on Enhertu.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be cautious when driving or using machinery until you know how Enhertu affects you.
Storage
Enhertu will be stored by healthcare professionals at the treatment facility.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Enhertu to show effects can vary by individual and type of cancer being treated.
There are no specific instructions regarding food interactions with Enhertu.
No, Enhertu is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Enhertu without consulting your doctor, as this may affect your treatment.
Consult your doctor about alcohol use during treatment with Enhertu.
Weight changes can occur, but specific effects can vary by individual.
Elderly patients should use Enhertu with caution, especially those with dementia.
Contact your doctor immediately to reschedule your missed dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.