Kadcyla 160mg Injection consists of the active ingredient Ado-Trastuzumab emtansine. It is a prescription medication used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body or has not responded to other treatments. It is a combination of two drugs: trastuzumab, which is an antibody that targets HER2 receptors, and emtansine, which is a chemotherapy drug that kills cancer cells. It is indicated to treat breast cancer in the early stages as well as advanced stages where patients develop recurrence within six months of chemotherapy treatment. This medication acts against tumors that produce more than the normal amount of a certain protein (known as HER2 protein).
Patients with residual breast cancer after chemotherapy treatment and HER2-targeted therapy have a poorer prognosis than those with no residual cancer. Report to your physician immediately in case you experience side effects such as allergic reactions, unusual bleeding, etc. This medication does not show any adverse effects on the kidney. In rare cases, an infusion reaction is seen. Like all other medications, it shows mild side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and hair loss.
Uses of Kadcyla 160mg Injection
Kadcyla 160mg Injection is indicated for its use in the following conditions:
- Advanced and metastatic breast cancer
- Metastatic gastric cancer
Therapeutic Effects of Kadcyla 160mg Injection
Kadcyla 160mg Injection works by combining the targeting ability of trastuzumab, which binds to HER2-positive cancer cells, with the cell-killing effects of emtansine, a chemotherapy drug. Once this medication binds to the HER2-positive cancer cells, it releases emtansine, which then enters the cancer cells and destroys them. This process helps to slow down or stop the growth of cancer, reducing the size of tumors and potentially extending the patient's life.
Interaction of Kadcyla 160mg Injection with other drugs
Inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Kadcyla 160mg Injection and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.
More Information about Kadcyla 160mg Injection
How to consume Kadcyla 160mg Injection
Kadcyla 160mg Injection is administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting. The dose and frequency depend on several factors, such as the individual's age, weight, overall health, and the type and stage of the cancer being treated. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible unless it's almost time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Do not double the dose to make up for missed doses.
Safety Advices for Kadcyla 160mg Injection
Pregnancy
Discuss with your physician before taking this Kadcyla 160mg Injection if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant. Do not take this medicine during the pregnancy unless advised by the doctor to take as it may cause harm to the unborn baby.
Breast Feeding
Avoid breastfeeding your baby while on the treatment with Kadcyla 160mg Injection for at least seven months after the final dose.
Lungs
Ado-trastuzumab emtansine safety and efficacy have not been extensively studied. So patients with pre-existing lung conditions should consult a doctor before taking it.
Liver
Kadcyla 160mg Injection can affect liver function, and in rare cases, it can cause liver damage, including hepatotoxicity and liver failure. Therefore, it's important to inform your healthcare professional if you have any history of liver problems, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, before starting treatment.
Alcohol
It is recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine, as alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects associated with the medication, such as stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Driving
Kadcyla 160mg Injection can cause unusual tiredness and dizziness. Hence, it is advised to avoid driving or handling machinery during the treatment.
Side Effects of Kadcyla 160mg Injection
Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all medicines cause side effects, not everyone gets them. Kadcyla 160mg Injection can cause side effects as follows:
Serious:
- Infusion reactions, including fever, chills, rash, or difficulty breathing
- Lung problems, including shortness of breath, cough, or fever
- Heart problems, including heart failure or abnormal heart rhythms
- Severe bleeding or bruising
- Nerve damage, including numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Severe allergic reactions
Common:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Muscle or joint pain
- Headache
- Fever
- Low platelet count
- High liver enzyme levels
- Low red blood cell count
- Loss of appetite
- Rash or itching
Word of Advice
If you are receiving Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine, it's important to be proactive in managing your treatment and monitoring your symptoms. Keep communication with your healthcare provider and report any concerns or side effects as soon as possible. Avoid getting pregnant and breastfeeding during treatment. Use effective birth control during the treatment and at least 7 weeks after the last dose. Immediately contact your healthcare provider in case of any worsening of symptoms or infusion reactions. Take steps to care for yourself physically and emotionally during treatment, and seek support from loved ones and professionals as needed. Maintain a healthy and balanced diet during treatment to support your overall health and well-being. Being informed and engaged in your treatment can help ensure the best possible outcomes and manage potential risks or complications.
FAQs
Q 1. Can Kadcyla 160mg Injection cause nerve damage?
Kadcyla 160mg Injection can cause peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that can cause tingling, numbness, or weakness in the hands and feet. If you experience these symptoms during treatment, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Q 2. Does Kadcyla 160mg Injection cause infertility?
Kadcyla 160mg Injection can cause temporary infertility in some patients, particularly women. If fertility preservation is a concern for you, discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Q 3. How is Kadcyla 160mg Injection different from traditional chemotherapy?
Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine is a type of chemotherapy, but it is designed to target HER2-positive cancer cells specifically, which may result in fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Additionally, it is given as a single medication, rather than as a combination of drugs.
Q 4. Can Kadcyla 160mg Injection be used in combination with other cancer treatments?
Kadcyla 160mg Injection may be used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or targeted therapies. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best treatment plan for you based on your individual needs and medical history.
Q 5. Can I take ado-trastuzumab emtansine if I have tuberculosis?
The use of ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla 160mg Injection) in patients with active tuberculosis (TB) is not recommended due to the risk of worsening the TB infection. This medication can suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections such as TB. Before starting treatment, your healthcare provider will perform a thorough evaluation of your medical history, including screening for TB.
Q 6. Can Kadcyla 160mg Injection cause heart problems?
Kadcyla 160mg Injection can cause heart problems, particularly in patients with preexisting heart conditions or risk factors. Your healthcare provider will monitor your heart function closely during the treatment.
Fact Box of Kadcyla 160mg Injection
Molecule name: Trastuzumab | Therapeutic class: Anti-cancer |
Pharmacological class: HER2 inhibitor | Indications: 1. Advanced and metastatic breast cancer 2. Metastatic gastric cancer |