Herceptin

[Terry46]

I had my last chemotherapy (4) three weeks ago. I am having a mamogram done next week and have to see my surgeon. My oncologist wants to put me in a medication called Hepceptin which I am not to sure about it because of it's side affects.For what I have read about it it has serious hard side affects. I have been diagnosed with atrial fibriliation and because of this I am scared of this medication. Do you have any information on this?

[Callygraphcs]

I had 3 rounds of Herceptin with baseline and follow up mugascans (heart function scan).
My heart was stronger after Herceptin (tho' I was exercising much more). I researched Herceptin. It's a GREAT, successful drug EXCEPT for possible heart toxicity. They can monitor your heart function pretty closely during treatment, and they won't (shouldn't) use it on you if your heart functions below their guidelines. Good luck, stay strong.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear Terry46,  Cardiac toxicity can be a side effect of the medication Herceptin.  Decisions about the use of the medication in your particular situation would need to be made based on the risks and benefits specific to you.  Your oncologist would be best equipped to have this discussion with you.  For additional information regarding the medication Herceptin I am referring you to the website www.chemocare.com, there you can look up information about the medication as well as side effects.

[ldtf]

does anyone know if you can go on herceptin after already having done tamoxifen for 2 yrs? i did not do chemo or herceptin. early stage , node negative, er+, her2+

[shelley50]

I LOVE HERCEPTIN.....it is why I am alive today I am certain of that fact. I was dx, in July of 02, because I was in a military setting I got Herceptin when most Her2+ patients did not because it was still used only in trials. Insurance would not pick up the tab for people yet but in my setting it was given the green light, thanks taxpayers>>>>>> I stayed on it for 1.5 years with no ill affects. Muga scans every 2-3 months were good and stayed healthy. I had a recurrence, same breast same area and had a bilateral and another year on Herceptin. Still have a healthy heart and I am so happy to have lived during a time of this great drug.  Her 2 cancers are aggressive and Herceptin gobbles up those  Her 2 proteins and keeps us chickies alive, YOU GO GIRL