What is Perjeta Used For?

Perjeta (pertuzumab) is a prescription medicine primarily used in combination with Herceptin (trastuzumab) and docetaxel to treat specific types of HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer.

Understanding Perjeta's Indication

Perjeta is approved for a very specific patient population and treatment regimen. Its use is focused on individuals battling a particular aggressive form of breast cancer.

Key Uses of Perjeta:

• HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Perjeta is specifically approved for use in patients whose breast cancer is HER2-positive. HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) is a protein that can promote the growth of cancer cells. Cancers that are HER2-positive have too much of this protein.
• Metastatic Cancer: It is indicated for breast cancer that has spread to different parts of the body, meaning it is metastatic.
• Combination Therapy: Perjeta is not used alone. It is administered in combination with two other agents:
  • Herceptin (trastuzumab)
  • Docetaxel (a type of chemotherapy)
• Specific Patient Cohort: The approval is for patients who have not previously received anti-HER2 therapy or chemotherapy specifically for their metastatic breast cancer. This means it's often used as a first-line treatment for metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer.

The Role of Perjeta in Treatment

Perjeta works by targeting the HER2 protein on cancer cells, similar to Herceptin, but at a different part of the receptor, providing a more comprehensive blockage of HER2 signaling pathways. This dual-targeting approach, combined with chemotherapy, aims to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment against HER2-positive breast cancer cells.

Summary of Perjeta's Approved Use:

This targeted approach helps to specifically attack cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells, although side effects can still occur.