When cancer cells have too much of a protein called HER2, a receptor that drives aggressive cell growth, often found in breast and stomach cancers. Also known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, it makes tumors grow faster and spread more easily. HER2-targeted treatment is designed to block this protein, slowing or stopping cancer progression without harming healthy cells the way chemo does.
This approach isn’t one-size-fits-all. It only works for patients whose tumors test positive for excess HER2 protein — a test done through biopsy. Around 15-20% of breast cancers are HER2-positive, and for them, these treatments have changed survival rates. Drugs like trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody that binds to HER2 and signals the immune system to destroy cancer cells, and pertuzumab, another antibody that blocks HER2 from pairing with other proteins to trigger growth, are often used together. They’re not magic bullets, but they’ve made once-deadly cancers manageable for many. Side effects like heart issues or fatigue can happen, which is why monitoring is part of the process.
HER2-targeted treatment doesn’t stop at antibodies. Newer options like T-DM1 (Kadcyla), a drug that combines trastuzumab with a chemotherapy agent to deliver poison directly to HER2 cells, and oral pills like lapatinib, a small molecule that blocks HER2 inside the cell, give doctors more tools to fight resistance. These aren’t just for late-stage cancer — many patients start them early, even after surgery, to prevent recurrence.
What you won’t find in this collection are vague claims or marketing fluff. Instead, you’ll see real-world guidance on how these drugs interact with other treatments, how to manage side effects like heart strain or nausea, and what to ask your oncologist when considering a switch. You’ll also find posts that connect HER2 therapy to broader topics — like how drug shortages affect access, how to track long-term safety data, and why some patients respond better than others. This isn’t just about the drug. It’s about understanding your body’s response, knowing your options, and making sure your treatment plan is as precise as the science behind it.
