Kadcyla: An Effective Treatment Option for HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide, with around 1.7 million new cases in 2012. Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) positive breast cancer is a particularly aggressive subtype that requires specialized treatment. Kadcyla (ado-trastuzumab emtansine) is a targeted therapy used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer that has metastasized or cannot be surgically removed. Uses Kadcyla is an approved treatment option for metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer in patients who have previously received treatment with trastuzumab and a taxane. Trastuzumab is another targeted therapy that is often used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer, but some patients can develop resistance to it. Kadcyla is the first therapy to combine trastuzumab and a chemotherapy agent, providing a novel approach to treating HER2-positive breast cancer. Kadcyla works by attaching to the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in HER2-positive breast cancer cells. The drug is then internalized into the cancer cell and released in the cell, where it works to destroy the cancer cell. This targeted approach allows Kadcyla to be effective in treating HER2-positive breast cancer with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Dosage Kadcyla is administered by injection into a vein. The recommended dosage is 3.6 mg/kg every three weeks, up to a maximum of 4.8 mg/kg. The dosage may need to be adjusted based on a patient's body weight, liver function, and other medical conditions. Treatment with Kadcyla is typically continued until the disease progresses or unacceptable toxicity occurs. Demographic Breast cancer is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 50, but HER2-positive breast cancer can occur in women of all ages. Kadcyla is approved for use in both men and women with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer who have previously received treatment with trastuzumab and a taxane. Side Effects Like all medications, Kadcyla can cause side effects. The most common side effects include fatigue, nausea, muscle and joint pain, headache, and constipation. Other side effects may include low platelet count, liver toxicity, and peripheral neuropathy. Interactions Kadcyla may interact with other medications, including drugs that are metabolized by the liver. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal treatments, before starting treatment with Kadcyla. Generic Options Kadcyla is not currently available as a generic medication. It is only available as a brand-name drug produced by Genentech, a subsidiary of Roche. However, there are other targeted therapies available for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, including trastuzumab and pertuzumab. Conclusion Kadcyla is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for HER2-positive breast cancer patients who have previously received treatment with trastuzumab and a taxane. It works by targeting HER2-positive breast cancer cells, leading to fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. While there are currently no generic options available, Kadcyla represents a significant advancement in the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer.