Key facts about Pertuzumab
What dosages is Pertuzumab available in?
Pertuzumab is available as a 420 mg/14 mL single-dose vial.
What is Pertuzumab used for?
Pertuzumab is a HER2 receptor antagonist that is used to treat HER2-positive breast cancers, together with Herceptin (trastuzumab) and chemotherapy.
How does Pertuzumab work?
Pertuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that acts as a human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) inhibitor. It blocks a specific protein in the body that’s important for cell growth called HER2. HER2 is found on both normal and cancer cells. Cancer cells usually have more HER2 proteins than normal cells. This can cause cancer cells to grow more quickly than normal cells. When HER2 is blocked by Pertuzumab, cancer cells can’t grow and spread as well.
How do I take Pertuzumab?
Pertuzumab is given by a healthcare provider as an injection into a vein (intravenously or IV). The typical dose is 840 mg IV for the first infusion, and then 420 mg given once every 3 weeks.
Is it safe for me to take Pertuzumab?
Pertuzumab is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Pertuzumab Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Pertuzumab:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Hair loss
- Fatigue
- Nerve problems in hands or feet (tingling or numbing sensation)
- Weakness or lack of energy
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Anemia
- Mucosal inflammation (mouth sores, mouth or gut inflammation)
- Rash
- Muscle pain
Pertuzumab Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Pertuzumab. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Infusion-related or allergic reactions: fever, chills, dizziness, nausea, headache, sweating, rash, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing
- Heart problems: shortness of breath; dry cough; swelling of legs, arms, or face; irregular heartbeats; dizziness; sudden weight gain
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Pertuzumab
- There are no major drug interactions listed for Pertuzumab. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking
Who makes Pertuzumab?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Pertuzumab safe in pregnancy?
Based on the mechanism of action and animal data, Pertuzumab can cause embryo-fetal harm when administered during pregnancy. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 7 months following the last dose of Pertuzumab in combination with trastuzumab.













