Perjeta 420 mg Concentrate for Solution for Infusion
Perjeta (pertuzumab) 420mg is an intravenous infusion concentrate used in combination with other medicines for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer in adults.
What it is
Pertuzumab is a HER2/neu receptor antagonist, a type of targeted therapy that blocks signals that help cancer cells grow. It is used specifically for breast cancers that have high levels of the HER2 protein.
What it's used for
This medicine is used in combination with trastuzumab and docetaxel for adults with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer who have not previously received anti-HER2 therapy or chemotherapy for the metastatic disease. It is also used with trastuzumab and chemotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment before surgery for HER2-positive breast cancer that is locally advanced, inflammatory, or early-stage with a tumour larger than 2 cm or involving lymph nodes.
Common side effects
The most common side effects (occurring in more than 30% of patients when used with trastuzumab and docetaxel for metastatic breast cancer) include diarrhoea, hair loss (alopecia), low white blood cell count (neutropenia), nausea, tiredness (fatigue), rash, and peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage causing numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet).
Important cautions
Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to pertuzumab or any of its ingredients. Pertuzumab can cause serious infusion-related reactions, including life-threatening events. Your healthcare team will watch for signs and symptoms during and after the infusion and may slow or stop the infusion if needed. It can also cause severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). If a severe reaction occurs, the infusion will be stopped immediately and you will receive appropriate treatment. This medicine may harm an unborn baby; women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during treatment and for some time afterward. Heart problems (left ventricular dysfunction) have also been reported. This is a hospital-only medicine used under close medical supervision.
Frequently asked questions
What is Perjeta used for?
Perjeta (pertuzumab) is used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer in adults. It is given together with trastuzumab and docetaxel for breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic), or with trastuzumab and chemotherapy before surgery for breast cancer that is locally advanced or early-stage.
How is Perjeta given?
It is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion into a vein. It is not taken by mouth. The infusion is typically given once every 3 weeks, with the first dose over 60 minutes and later doses over 30 to 60 minutes. It must be administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
What are the side effects of Perjeta?
Common side effects include diarrhoea, hair loss, low white blood cell count, nausea, tiredness, rash, and nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy). Serious side effects can include infusion reactions, allergic reactions, heart problems, and harm to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience fever, chills, difficulty breathing, or chest pain during or after an infusion.
Can I buy Perjeta without a prescription in Nigeria?
Yes, according to our records this product is available as an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine. However, because it is an intravenous infusion for cancer treatment, it should only be used under the supervision of a qualified doctor. You can order it from Drugstore.ng without a prescription, but you will still need a healthcare provider to administer it.
What should I tell my doctor before using Perjeta?
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as this medicine can harm an unborn baby. Also inform your doctor about any heart problems, allergies, or other medicines you are taking.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
