Introduction to Vivitra 440 mg Injection

Vivitra 440 mg Injection is a biosimilar to trastuzumab, designed for the treatment of HER2-positive breast and gastric cancers. It is a monoclonal antibody that targets the HER2 receptor, which is overexpressed in certain cancer cells, helping to slow their growth and spread.

Vivitra is administered intravenously and is typically used in combination with chemotherapy to treat metastatic breast cancer, early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer, and HER2-positive gastric cancer. This injection is primarily prescribed for patients with HER2-positive cancers, where the overexpression of the HER2 protein is present.

It works by binding to the HER2 receptor on the surface of cancer cells, blocking the growth signals and helping the body’s immune system fight the cancer. Vivitra can be used alone or with chemotherapy, depending on the stage of cancer and the patient’s overall treatment plan.

Uses of  Vivitra 440 mg

Vivitra 440 mg is used primarily for the treatment of HER2-positive cancers. Here are the key uses:

• Breast cancer
• Stomach cancer

How Does Vivitra 440 Works?

Vivitra 440 mg Injection has an active ingredient; Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody specifically designed to target HER2 receptors on breast cancer & stomach cancer cells. In vitro, Trastuzumab has been shown to be preferentially exerted on HER2 over expressing cancer cells compared with cancer cells that do not over express HER2.This medicine flags the cancer cells for annihilation by the body’s immune system. It is known to inhibit the proliferation of human tumor cells and angiogenesis of tumor cells.

Dosages of Vivitra

• Vivitra 150mg Injection

Side Effects of Vivitra 440

• Fever and Chills
• Fatigue (Tiredness)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Rash
• Skin Reactions

How to Manage Side Effects?

Here’s a concise guide on managing side effects of Vivitra:

• Pre-medicate with acetaminophen for fever and infusion-related reactions.
• Rest and hydrate to combat fatigue and maintain energy.
• Take anti-nausea medications as prescribed to manage vomiting.
• Stay hydrated and use anti-diarrheal meds for diarrhea.
• Moisturize skin and avoid sun exposure to reduce rashes.
• Monitor heart function regularly with echocardiograms to prevent heart issues.
• Practice good hygiene to prevent infections, especially with low white blood cells.
• Contact doctor immediately if experiencing chest pain or swelling. 

Warnings & Precautions

1. Cardiac Toxicity:

• Vivitra may cause heart failure or other cardiac issues. Regular monitoring of heart function (e.g., echocardiograms) is essential. Discontinue if heart problems like shortness of breath or chest pain occur.

2. Infusion Reactions:

• Serious reactions such as anaphylaxis, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing can occur. Pre-medication may be required, and infusions should be carefully monitored.

3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Avoid use during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Do not breastfeed during and for 7 months after treatment.

4. Lung Toxicity:

• Rare but severe lung problems like interstitial lung disease can occur. Monitor for respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, difficulty breathing).

5. Severe Infections:

• Vivitra can cause low white blood cell counts, increasing the risk of infections. Seek immediate medical attention for symptoms of infections (fever, sore throat).

6. Liver Function:

• Regular liver tests should be done to check for hepatotoxicity.

7. Infusion-Related Reactions:

• Monitor closely during the first infusion and subsequent treatments.

8. Avoid Live Vaccines:

• Do not receive live vaccines during treatment as the immune system may be weakened.

9. Contraception During Treatment:

• Use effective contraception during treatment and for 7 months after.

Storage

• Store in refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C.
• Do not freeze the medication.
• Keep in original packaging to protect light.
• Avoid storing near the refrigerator door.
• Do not shake or agitate vial.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Discard unused medication after the expiration date.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions