Information for the public
Trastuzumab emtansine is available on the NHS. It is a possible option for adults who have already had treatment for locally advanced or metastatic cancer who:
- have human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‑positive cancer that cannot be removed by surgery
- have already had trastuzumab and a taxane, separately or together and
- have disease that has come back during adjuvant therapy or within 6 months of finishing it.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
NHS Choices may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Breast Cancer Care, 0808 800 6000
- Breast Cancer Now, 0333 207 0300
- Cancer Research UK Patient Information (previously CancerHelp UK), 0808 800 4040
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-2596-4
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