A Real-World Pharmacovigilance Analysis of HER2 Inhibitor-Induced Cardiovascular Toxicity

Jianhui Yao1,2, Chao Tao3,4, Weiyi Chen3

  • 1West China Hospital Sichuan University, Meishan Hospital, Meishan, China.

Oncology
|July 21, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) inhibitors are linked to cardiovascular adverse events (CVAEs). This study analyzed FAERS data, finding monoclonal antibodies showed higher toxicity, informing prevention and management strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacovigilance
  • Oncology
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Widespread use of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) inhibitors in cancer therapy has led to an increase in associated cardiovascular diseases.
  • Cardiovascular adverse events (CVAEs) are a significant concern with HER2 inhibitor treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between HER2 inhibitors and CVAEs.
  • To analyze the safety profile of different classes of HER2 inhibitors regarding cardiovascular toxicity.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database from Q1 2004 to Q4 2024.
  • Conducted disproportionality analyses using reporting odds ratios and proportional reporting ratios.
  • Evaluated HER2 inhibitor-related CVAEs at standardized MedDRA query and preferred term levels.

Main Results:

  • Identified 12,698 reports of CVAEs linked to HER2 inhibitors, involving 12,398 patients.
  • Observed higher cardiovascular toxicity with monoclonal antibodies compared to antibody-drug conjugates and HER2-tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
  • Trastuzumab showed greater cardiovascular toxicity than other HER2 inhibitors; CVAEs were more prevalent in women aged 45 and older.

Conclusions:

  • Confirmed a strong association between HER2 inhibitors and CVAEs.
  • Findings provide crucial insights for the prevention and clinical management of HER2 inhibitor-induced cardiovascular toxicity.

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