The infusion process
PERJETA is given every 3 weeks as an IV infusion
PERJETA is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, which means that medication is administered directly into the bloodstream through a vein.
PERJETA and Herceptin® (trastuzumab) are given back-to-back at the same visit. You will also get chemotherapy as part of your treatment, but it may be on a different schedule.
If you start PERJETA + Herceptin-based therapy before surgery, you may continue to get it after surgery to complete 1 year (up to 18 cycles).*
*Unless side effects become too difficult to manage, or the cancer comes back sooner.
How long will each infusion last?
Infusion times may vary from person to person depending on tolerability.
After each medication is given, your doctor or nurse will wait 30 to 60 minutes to check for any reactions. If a reaction occurs, they may adjust, delay, or stop treatment.
During your first treatment
The medicines are given more slowly during your first visit. Your first dose of PERJETA will be given as an infusion over 60 minutes. Herceptin will be given over 90 minutes, and chemotherapy infusion times may vary by regimen.
Side effects may occur with PERJETA
PERJETA is given together with Herceptin and chemotherapy, and side effects may occur.
What are the most serious side effects of PERJETA?
PERJETA may cause heart problems, including those without symptoms (such as reduced heart function) and those with symptoms (such as congestive heart failure).
Receiving PERJETA during pregnancy can result in the death of an unborn baby and birth defects.
Other possible serious and sometimes fatal side effects of PERJETA therapy include:
- Infusion-related reactions
- Severe allergic reactions (hypersensitivity reactions/anaphylaxis)
The most common side effects of PERJETA when given with Herceptin and chemotherapy as part of an early breast cancer regimen are constipation, damage to the nerves (numbness, tingling, pain in hands/feet), diarrhea, feeling tired, hair loss, headache, low levels of red blood cells, low levels of white blood cells with or without fever, low platelet count, mouth blisters or sores, nausea, pain in the muscles, vomiting, and weakness.
Side effects may vary based on chemotherapy regimen.
Talk to your doctor about any side effects you experience. Here are some tips you can try.
Remember, the tips mentioned below may not work for everyone. Be sure to talk with your doctor or other healthcare provider before trying any of these tips.
Select side effects associated with PERJETA + Herceptin-based therapy during early breast cancer treatment
Diarrhea
Constipation
Feeling tired
Hair loss
Nausea and vomiting
Be aware that these are not all of the side effects associated with PERJETA. For more information, please review the PERJETA Important Safety Information and the full Prescribing Information.
You are encouraged to report side effects to Genentech and the FDA. You may contact Genentech by calling 1-888-835-2555. You may contact the FDA by visiting www.fda.gov/medwatch or calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Enroll in a free patient support program designed specifically for people living with HER2+ breast cancer.
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