When I discovered that the cancer had spread to my brain, my oncologist confidently adjusted my treatment plan. I was prescribed a drug capable of penetrating the blood-brain barrier. As stated by the National Cancer Institute, the blood-brain barrier is a complex network of blood vessels and tightly packed cells designed to prevent harmful substances from accessing the brain, and most drugs are unable to breach it.
The drug I was switched to is Enhertu, a powerful combination of Herceptin (Trastuzumab) and durextecan. Herceptin serves as a potent anti-Her2 agent, while durextecan functions as an effective chemotherapy drug. This cutting-edge treatment has demonstrated highly promising results, not only for HER2-positive breast cancer but also for other types of cancer.
The most common side effects of Enhertu are:
nausea
fatigue
vomiting
hair loss
constipation
decreased appetite
anemia
low white blood cell counts
diarrhea
cough
bone, joint, or muscular pain
headache
dizziness
neuropathy
My journey with Enhertu was incredibly challenging. I battled persistent nausea throughout the day, despite trying multiple nausea medications. The unrelenting vomiting made it hard for me to function, and I truly felt awful. However, amidst the struggle, there were positive developments concerning my cancer; my tumor showed some shrinking and a reduction in swelling. Yet, the toll on my body was just too much to bear. After a few rounds, we opted for a dose reduction, but even then, my symptoms didn’t improve after three rounds with the lower dose. Ultimately, we came to the decision to adjust my treatment again, leading me to Xeloda, Tukysa, and Herceptin.
I understand that there are numerous Enhertu success stories out there. While my experience may not mirror those peak successes, I truly hope to encourage rather than deter anyone considering this treatment. Enhertu has proven to be a remarkable option for many individuals, and it’s essential to remember that each person’s journey with treatment can vary greatly.
