Is HER2-targeted therapy done with antibody-drug conjugates?

An antibody-drug conjugate combines an antibody that recognises HER2 with a linked drug designed to damage cancer cells. After binding to a HER2-containing cell, the conjugate may be taken inside the cell and release its drug payload. This approach is different from an unlinked HER2 antibody, although both use the HER2 signal as part of treatment selection.

Whether it is suitable depends on the cancer type, HER2 test result, stage, previous treatment, other health conditions, and the medicines available in your treatment plan. HER2 status can be assessed using tumour tissue tests, and the result should be interpreted by your oncology team.

Ask your oncologist which HER2 test supports the recommendation and whether the sample is recent enough for the decision. Review the planned schedule, other medicines, and monitoring before treatment starts. Tell the team about heart or lung problems, previous drug reactions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.

Keep a record of symptoms after each infusion. Do not wait for the next appointment to report a new reaction, reduced appetite with poor fluid intake, or symptoms that interfere with daily activities.

During or soon after treatment, alert staff immediately for flushing, rash, chest tightness, wheezing, dizziness, or swelling. Between visits, contact the oncology team urgently for new breathlessness, persistent cough, fever, severe diarrhoea, unusual bleeding, or marked weakness. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or swelling of the face or throat.

Ask: What does my HER2 result show? Is an antibody-drug conjugate recommended for my cancer and treatment history? How will heart, lung, blood, or nerve effects be monitored? Which symptoms need immediate help?