Herceptin Solution for Injection Injection (Trastuzumab hyaluronidase) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Trastuzumab hyaluronidase (sold as Herceptin SC) is an injection given under the skin that works by targeting a protein called HER2 found on the surface of certain cancer cells, helping your immune system find and destroy those cancer cells while slowing their growth.

What is it used for?

HER2-positive breast cancerHER2-positive stomach (gastric) cancer

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Cancer Treatment

How it works

Binds to human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) on cancer cell surfaces, blocking HER2-mediated signaling and promoting antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and apoptosis; hyaluronidase enhances subcutaneous tissue permeability for improved drug delivery.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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Is Trastuzumab safe to take with another drug?

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How to take this drug

This is NOT a tablet — it is an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous) by a trained healthcare worker in a hospital or cancer treatment centre. The usual dose is a fixed 600 mg injection given once every 3 weeks. You cannot take this at home on your own. Your oncologist will determine how many cycles you need based on your cancer stage.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss your scheduled injection appointment, contact your cancer doctor or treatment centre as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not try to double up on doses. Your doctor will adjust your treatment schedule accordingly.

What to watch out for

Only receive this drug at a recognised cancer treatment centre with qualified oncologists — never buy from unverified sources or roadside sellers. Your doctor should check your heart function regularly with tests before and during treatment. If you notice unusual breathlessness, persistent cough, or swollen ankles, report to your doctor immediately — do not wait for your next appointment.

Common Side Effects

Pain
redness or swelling at the injection site
tiredness and body weakness
joint or muscle pain
diarrhoea
nausea or loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects

Heart problems such as chest pain
shortness of breath
swollen legs or irregular heartbeat — report immediately. Severe allergic reactions including difficulty breathing
swelling of the face or throat
or feeling faint during or after the injection — this is a medical emergency. Serious infections with high fever and chills that do not go away.

Drug Interactions

Anthracycline chemotherapy drugs (like doxorubicin) — taking them together significantly increases the risk of heart damage. Other cancer drugs like paclitaxel or docetaxel may increase side effects when used in combination. Always tell your oncologist about every medicine, herb or supplement you are taking.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

This drug is NOT safe during pregnancy — it can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby, and women must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 7 months after the last dose; breastfeeding should also be avoided.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to trastuzumab or hyaluronidase
pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant
people with serious existing heart problems or weak heart function
and breastfeeding mothers should not use this drug.

How to Store

This medicine must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C — it must NOT be left in room temperature or exposed to Nigerian heat or sunlight, as it will spoil. Do not freeze it. It is stored and handled by the hospital or pharmacy, so you normally will not need to store it yourself. Keep away from children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Herceptin Solution for Injection