Trastuzumab
Herceptin (trastuzumab) is a targeted cancer therapy belonging to the class of monoclonal antibodies. It works by binding to the HER2 protein on cancer cells, which is overexpressed in certain aggressive forms of breast cancer and gastric cancer. This medication is used primarily in patients whose tumors test positive for HER2 overexpression.
Herceptin is a monoclonal antibody that targets HER2-positive cancer cells, used to treat HER2-positive breast and gastric cancers.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 101306
- Generic
- Herceptin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Herceptin is FDA-approved for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer (including early-stage, metastatic, and as adjuvant therapy) and HER2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. It may be used alone or in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
Herceptin is a monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to the HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) protein on the surface of cancer cells. By targeting HER2, it inhibits the growth signals that promote cancer cell proliferation and may trigger the immune system to destroy the cancer cells.
Herceptin is administered intravenously and can cause serious side effects including heart problems (cardiotoxicity), infusion reactions, and harm to an unborn pregnancy. Regular cardiac monitoring is required during treatment. Patients must have documented HER2-positive status before starting therapy.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy