Herceptin treatment for breast cancer

These Her2 receptors are found in all cells, they control cell growth and repair. But they are present in particularly high numbers in 1 in 5 breast cancers, which can fuel the cancer’s growth and spread.

Her2 can be blocked by immune therapy, with a drug called Herceptin. It’s a monoclonal antibody that can block the signals, potentially slowing cancer growth and preventing recurrence.

Cancer treatment can be challenging, physically and emotionally. At this difficult time, The London Clinic can offer advanced treatments, as well as support and a stress-free environment in which to recover.

Understanding your treatment

The London Clinic’s expert pathologists will analyse cells from your breast cancer and check for the presence of Her2 receptors. They’re found in small amounts on normal breast cells, but some cancer cells have larger numbers of the receptor. The more receptors a cancer has, the quicker it may grow, but Herceptin can block the signal, slow cancer growth and improve chances of survival.

Your consultant oncologist will discuss your treatment options and design a customised plan of treatment, always considering your feelings and your general health.

Dr Mary McCormack, Dr Suzy Cleator and Prof Paul Ellis will explain what to expect during treatment and take time to answer any questions you may have.

Treatment facts

Herceptin is to be given directly into the vein or injected into your thigh, so the experience of treatment is a little like having chemotherapy, although with fewer unpleasant side-effects. If having treatment via your vein, a drip may be inserted, or sometimes a device called an indwelling catheter can be put into your vein. This stays in place throughout the course of your treatment. It reduces the need for repeated needle insertions and can be much more comfortable, especially for people in whom venous access is a problem.

The drug is infused intravenously over around an hour. For early breast cancer, the treatment is repeated every 3 weeks for one year, but for more advanced disease, treatment can be given weekly. If you have the treatment via an injection, the treatment time is less.

Treatment risks and recovery

The first treatment may make you feel unwell, however this usually wears off fairly quickly. You may be tired and notice hot flushes and sweats, diarrhoea and joint or muscle pain.1

With continued treatment, your heart will be monitored because Herceptin can occasionally cause cardiac complications.

The effectiveness of your treatment will depend on the size and stage of the cancer and your general health. Throughout therapy, The London Clinic’s multidisciplinary team will work to maintain your physical health and your emotional wellbeing, they will support you and your family through every step of your cancer journey.