Perjeta (pertuzumab)

Perjeta is manufactured in Germany and shipped by courier from India.

Information About Perjeta (Pertuzumab)

Perjeta (generic name: pertuzumab) is a targeted therapy medication used primarily in the treatment of breast cancer. It is a monoclonal antibody that works by inhibiting the HER2 receptor, a protein that is overexpressed in certain types of breast cancer, leading to uncontrolled cancer cell growth. Perjeta is often used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and trastuzumab (Herceptin), for more effective outcomes in HER2-positive breast cancer patients.

Product Highlights

• Perjeta is primarily indicated for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, which is a subtype of breast cancer characterized by overexpression of the HER2 protein on cancer cells.
• Administered alongside chemotherapy for the treatment of early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer.
• Used in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy to treat HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer.
• Perjeta is also indicated as part of neoadjuvant therapy (before surgery) for HER2-positive breast cancer to reduce the size of the tumor.

Key Ingredient

• Pertuzumab

Key Benefits

• Perjeta significantly improves survival outcomes when used in combination with other treatments for HER2-positive breast cancer.
• In neoadjuvant therapy, it helps shrink tumors before surgery, improving surgical outcomes.
• When combined with trastuzumab and chemotherapy, Perjeta provides a more powerful anti-cancer effect than when used alone.
• Clinical studies have shown that Perjeta improves overall survival and progression-free survival in patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer.

Direction of Use

• Perjeta is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion administered by a healthcare professional.
• The treatment usually begins with a loading dose, followed by maintenance doses.The exact dosing schedule depends on the type of breast cancer (early-stage or metastatic) and the specific treatment regimen.
• For neoadjuvant treatment, it is usually given with chemotherapy before surgery.
• For metastatic disease, it is administered along with trastuzumab and chemotherapy.
• Infusions are typically given every 3 weeks, with adjustments based on the patient's response and clinical situation.

Safety Concerns

• Some patients may experience allergic reactions during the infusion, such as fever, chills, or difficulty breathing. These reactions are usually managed by slowing or stopping the infusion and administering appropriate medications.
• Perjeta, like other HER2-targeted therapies, can affect heart function, potentially leading to heart failure or reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Heart function should be monitored regularly during treatment.
• Pertuzumab can harm a developing fetus. It is classified as a pregnancy category D drug, indicating that it may cause serious birth defects.Women should not be pregnant or breastfeeding during treatment and should use effective contraception.
• Diarrhea is a common side effect, which can be severe in some cases.
• A decrease in white blood cells, leading to a higher risk of infections, may occur.
• As with many cancer treatments, Perjeta can suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections.

Avoid Perjeta (Pertuzumab) If

• Do not use Perjeta if you are pregnant, as it can cause harm to the fetus. Women should avoid becoming pregnant during treatment and for some time after completing therapy (consult with your doctor for specific recommendations).
• Avoid breastfeeding during treatment with Perjeta, as it is unknown if the drug passes into breast milk and could harm the infant.
• If you have a history of heart problems, particularly heart failure or reduced heart function, Perjeta may not be suitable due to the risk of further cardiovascular issues.
• If you have had a previous allergic reaction to pertuzumab or any of its components, you should not take this medication.
• If you have an active infection, your healthcare provider may postpone treatment until the infection is resolved.

This product requires special packaging to maintain its integrity during the shipping process. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICATION if the attached temperature indicator shows that the medication was exposed to temperatures below 2 degrees or above 8 degrees Celsius, and contact the pharmacy immediately.