Trastuzumab Deruxtecan
Brand Names: Enhertu
Drug Class: Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC)
Overview: Enhertu (Trastuzumab Deruxtecan) is a targeted cancer therapy known as an antibody-drug conjugate. It combines a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the HER2 protein on cancer cells with a chemotherapy agent. This design allows the drug to deliver chemotherapy directly to HER2-positive cancer cells, potentially improving effectiveness while limiting exposure to healthy cells.
History & development
Learn about the origins of this treatment, who developed it, and significant milestones in its path to approval.
Enhertu was developed collaboratively by Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca. It represents a significant advancement in targeted cancer therapies. The drug received approval from Health Canada in 2021 for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer who have received at least two prior anti-HER2-based regimens.
Developer: Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca
Health Canada Approval Date: 2021
How it Works, in Plain English
Understand in simple terms how this treatment targets cancer cells within your body
Enhertu works by binding to the HER2 receptors on the surface of cancer cells. Once attached, the drug is internalized into the cell, where it releases the chemotherapy agent deruxtecan. This agent interferes with DNA replication, leading to cancer cell death. The targeted approach aims to minimize damage to healthy cells and reduce side effects.
Approved Uses in Canada
Discover the specific types and stages of cancer for which this treatment is officially approved.
Enhertu is approved in Canada for:
- Unresectable or Metastatic HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
- For adult patients who have previously received at least two anti-HER2-based regimens in the metastatic setting.
Note: Approval statuses and indications may change. Consult your healthcare provider or Health Canada’s website for the most current information.
Side Effects
Here are some of the known side effects of this treatment. There could be others. If you experience any side effects or have concerns, please consult your doctor immediately.
Common Side Effects
Nausea and Vomiting
Fatigue
Hair Loss (Alopecia)
Decreased Appetite
Anemia (Low Red Blood Cell Count)
Low White Blood Cell Counts (Neutropenia)
Constipation or Diarrhea
Serious Side Effects
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)/Pneumonitis:
Symptoms: Cough, shortness of breath, fever.
Can be severe and life-threatening.
Neutropenia:
Increases risk of infection.
Heart Problems:
Including reduced heart function.
Note: Approval statuses and indications may change. Consult your healthcare provider or Health Canada’s website for the most current information.
Drug Interactions and Contraindications
Below are a few of the known interactions and contraindications. There may be more. This information is a general guide. Please consult your doctor for personalized advice. Please inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Drug Interactions
Medications Affecting Heart Rhythm: Combining with drugs that prolong QT interval may increase heart risks.
P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors/Inducers: May affect the levels of Enhertu in your body.
Contraindications
Pregnancy: Can cause harm to an unborn baby.
Effective contraception is required during treatment and for at least 7 months after the last dose.
Breastfeeding: Not recommended during treatment and for at least 7 months after the final dose.
Precautions
Pre-existing Lung Disease: May increase the risk of lung-related side effects.
Cardiac Conditions: Baseline heart function should be assessed.
Clinical Trials and Research
(the science)
Explore key studies and recent research findings that support the effectiveness of this treatment.
Trastuzumab Deruxtecan went to market based on the results of the DESTINY-Breast01 clinical trial, which demonstrated significant efficacy in treating HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer in patients who had previously received multiple anti-HER2 therapies. More trials, such as DESTINY-Breast03 and DESTINY-Breast04, have since been conducted.
Similar or Related Treatments
Discover other treatments that are similar or often used in combination with this one.
- Kadcyla (Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine): Another HER2-targeted antibodydrug conjugate.
- Perjeta (Pertuzumab): Often used in combination with Herceptin and chemotherapy.
- Herceptin (Trastuzumab): A monoclonal antibody targeting HER2 receptors
Open Clinical Trials
Here are some current clinical trials involving this treatment that you may be eligible to join. Please discuss clinical trial participation with your healthcare provider to determine if it’s right for you. The following list may be incomplete.
Current Trials May Include: studies on HER2-positive and HER2-low breast cancer, as well as trials investigating Enhertu in other cancers
Additional Resources
Links to support organizations and educational materials for further information and assistance.
