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Subcutaneous trastuzumab: drug development and current position
P Martín Martorell1, B Bermejo de Las Heras, J A Pérez-Fidalgo
1Hematology and Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Avda. Blasco Ibáñez 17, 46010, Valencia, Spain, paloma_martin@comv.es.
Abstract:
HER2-positive breast cancer, accounting for 15 % of the total breast cancer patient population, carries in itself a bad prognosis, which has now become much better after the advent of anti-HER2 drugs. HER2-targeted therapy has significantly improved disease free- and overall survival in HER2-positive breast cancer, and has rendered better disease control both in the early and advanced disease setting. Trastuzumab treatment duration is often prolonged and poses significant time and resource challenges both on the treatment institutions and on the patient. The recent development of a subcutaneous formulation has meant a significant advance in this respect. We review the drug development of the compound and the current evidence on its use.
Insights
The advent of anti-HER2 drugs has improved outcomes for HER2-positive breast cancer. A new subcutaneous formulation of trastuzumab offers a more convenient treatment option, addressing logistical challenges.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- HER2-positive breast cancer accounts for 15% of cases and historically had a poor prognosis.
- Anti-HER2 drugs have significantly improved survival and disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the drug development of trastuzumab.
- To discuss the current evidence on the use of a new subcutaneous formulation of trastuzumab.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on trastuzumab drug development.
- Analysis of current clinical evidence for subcutaneous trastuzumab.
Main Results:
- HER2-targeted therapy has transformed the prognosis of HER2-positive breast cancer.
- Trastuzumab, while effective, presents prolonged treatment duration challenges.
- A subcutaneous formulation of trastuzumab has been developed to improve convenience.
Conclusions:
- Subcutaneous trastuzumab represents a significant advancement in managing HER2-positive breast cancer.
- This formulation addresses the time and resource challenges associated with prolonged intravenous trastuzumab treatment.
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