Definitions for "Herceptin"
(generic name, trastuzumab): A drug used to treat advanced breast cancer patients whose tumors over-express the HER2 growth factor. See also HER2 or HER-2/neu.
A humanized monoclonal antibody to the HER-2 growth factor receptor intended for use in the treatment of HER-2 overexpressing metastatic breast cancer. Indication: for treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer whose tumors overexpress the HER-2 protein and who have received one or more chemotherapy regimens for their metastatic disease; administration in combination with paclitaxel (Taxol®) for the treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer whose tumors overexpress HER-2 protein and who have not received chemotherapy for their metastatic disease. Administration: weekly via intravenous infusion. Mfg: Genentech, Inc. Source: Business Wire - 03/31/98; HHS (Health and Human Services) news - 09/25/98.
commercial name for an antibody that attaches itself to HER2 on breast cancer tumors, inhibiting the tumor's ability to grow. Approximately 15 - 25 % of breast cancer patients have a gene mutation known as HER2-positive.