Kanjinti (Trastuzumab)

Kanjinti (trastuzumab) is indicated for HER2‑positive cancers, targeting the HER2 receptor pathway.

• HER2‑positive metastatic breast cancer: improves overall survival and disease control in adult patients.
• HER2‑positive early breast cancer (adjuvant setting): reduces risk of recurrence after surgery.
• HER2‑positive gastric/gastro‑esophageal adenocarcinoma: used in combination therapy to improve response rates.

• Trastuzumab binds to the extracellular domain of the human epidermal growth factor receptor‑2 (HER2) on tumor cells, blocking ligand‑independent signaling, preventing dimerization, and inhibiting downstream proliferation pathways. The antibody also recruits immune effector cells, leading to antibody‑dependent cellular cytotoxicity and tumor cell lysis.

Kanjinti may be associated with a range of adverse reactions observed in clinical use.

Common Side Effects

• Fever: transient elevation of body temperature.
• Nausea: mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset.
• Fatigue: general tiredness or lack of energy.
• Infusion‑related reactions: chills, flushing, or shortness of breath during administration.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Cardiac dysfunction: decreased left ventricular ejection fraction or heart failure.
• Severe infusion reactions: anaphylaxis or bronchospasm.
• Thromboembolic events: deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.

When using Kanjinti, clinicians should observe several safety measures.

• Cardiac monitoring: assess baseline and periodic left ventricular function.
• Infusion reactions: monitor patients during and after infusion for signs of hypersensitivity.
• Pregnancy: avoid use; safety not established in pregnant women.
• Breastfeeding: discontinue if nursing; trastuzumab may be present in milk.
• Concomitant therapies: evaluate potential additive toxicities with cardiotoxic agents.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Kanjinti can interact with other medicines; awareness of the interaction level is important.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anthracyclines (e.g., doxorubicin): combined use increases risk of cardiac toxicity.
• Other HER2‑targeted agents (e.g., pertuzumab) administered concurrently: may enhance cardiotoxic risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Paclitaxel or other taxanes: monitor for increased infusion reactions.
• Vaccines: live vaccines should be avoided during treatment.
• Overlapping toxicities: watch for additive effects when combined with other agents that affect cardiac or hepatic function.