WHAT ARE THE EXAMPLES OF SMART DRUGS?
Trastuzumab, Lapanitib, Pertuzumab, Ado-trastuzumab emtansine
1. Trastuzumab
This drug was developed to bind to the extracellular portion of the HER2 receptor. It is available in intravenous or subcutaneous forms in some countries. Since trastuzumab's general availability in the early 2000s, there have been noticeable improvements in the overall survival and quality of life of patients with HER2-positive tumors.It is often administered for a period of 52 weeks, determined by a medical oncologist. It can be administered in conjunction with radiation therapy. It is initially administered in combination with chemotherapy. To assess the potential side effects of the drug, a cardiologist is asked to perform an echocardiogram to assess the heart's pumping power, called ejection fraction (EF). It can be used in patients with EF values above 55%, but EF measurements should be repeated throughout the treatment period.
2. Lapatinib
It works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme tyrosine kinase, which is found in the intracellular portion of the HER2 receptor. It is generally used in conjunction with the chemotherapy pill capecitabine in cases where it is difficult to control. It is preferred in patients who have previously used trastuzumab, also known as Herceptin, in combination with chemotherapy and have developed a poor response. It is taken orally in pill form.3. Pertuzumab
This is a type of drug administered intravenously and used in combination with Herceptin in HER2-rich tumors. It is used to shrink tumors before surgery or in tumors that do not respond to Herceptin alone. In our country, its use for preoperative shrinkage is not approved by the Ministry of Health. However, it can be used if your medical oncologist deems it appropriate.