Introduction to Kadcyla 160mg Injection
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.
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
- Kadcyla 160mg Injection should be stored in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
- Protected from light.
- Keep it in its original packaging until it is ready to be used.
- Keep reaching out of the reach of children and pets.
- It should be disposed of properly.
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