vivitra 440mg injection - Trastuzumab (440mg) medicine

Eleftha 440mg Injection (Trastuzumab): Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 Zydus Cadila 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Chest pain or palpitations
  • Severe rash or hives during infusion
  • Sudden weight gain or swelling of ankles
  • Fever with chills and low blood counts
  • New or worsening cough

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is vivitra 440mg injection used for?

This medicine is a targeted cancer medicine containing trastuzumab 440 mg injection. It is used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer and HER2-positive gastric cancer. It works by blocking the HER2 receptor on cancer cells and helping the immune system destroy them. It is given as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional.

  • Generic Name: Trastuzumab (440mg)
  • Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 vivitra 440mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा ट्रास्टुज़ुमैब 440 मिलीग्राम इंजेक्शन है, जिसका उपयोग HER2-पॉज़िटिव स्तन कैंसर और HER2-पॉज़िटिव पेट के कैंसर के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह एक टार्गेटेड थेरेपी है जो कैंसर कोशिकाओं पर मौजूद HER2 रिसेप्टर को ब्लॉक करती है और शरीर की प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली को कैंसर कोशिकाओं को नष्ट करने में मदद करती है। यह दवा अस्पताल या कैंसर केंद्र में डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा नस के माध्यम से दी जाती है। इसे घर पर स्वयं नहीं लगाया जा सकता।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में बुखार, ठंड लगना, सिरदर्द, मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, थकान, और इंजेक्शन के दौरान प्रतिक्रियाएं जैसे चेहरे पर लालिमा, दाने और सांस लेने में कठिनाई शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में हृदय की समस्या (हृदय की पंपिंग क्षमता कम होना), गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएं, और फेफड़ों की समस्या शामिल हो सकती हैं। कोई भी नया या बिगड़ता लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य स्वास्थ्य पेशेवर द्वारा अस्पताल या कैंसर केंद्र में ही दी जानी चाहिए। इलाज से पहले और दौरान आपके हृदय की कार्यप्रणाली की जांच की जाएगी। यदि आपको सांस लेने में तकलीफ, पैरों में सूजन, धड़कन तेज होना, या असामान्य थकान महसूस हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं। इलाज के दौरान और आखिरी खुराक के सात महीने बाद तक गर्भधारण न करें। स्तनपान न कराएं। जीवित टीके न लगवाएं। अपने साथ इलाज कार्ड रखें और किसी भी डॉक्टर को इस दवा के बारे में बताएं।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 vivitra 440mg injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"HER2-positive early breast cancer","description":"Used as adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy in patients with HER2-positive early breast cancer, often in combination with chemotherapy, to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve survival.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer","description":"Used as first-line or later-line treatment in HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, either alone or in combination with taxane chemotherapy, to slow disease progression and prolong survival.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"HER2-positive metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma","description":"Used in combination with chemotherapy for patients with HER2-positive advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer who have not received prior anti-HER2 therapy.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"HER2-positive salivary gland carcinoma","description":"Occasionally used off-label in HER2-positive salivary duct carcinomas based on case reports and small series.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"HER2-positive colorectal cancer","description":"Rarely used off-label in HER2-amplified metastatic colorectal cancer after standard therapies have failed.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: HER2-positive breast cancer

Also treats: HER2-positive metastatic gastric cancer, HER2-positive gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Trastuzumab (440mg)
Brand Namevivitra 440mg injection
ManufacturerZydus Cadila
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI NEOPLASTICS
Action ClassHER2/neu (ErbB2) Inhibitor- Monoclonal antibody
Route of AdministrationParenteral (intravenous infusion)
StorageStore vials in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Keep the vial in the original carton to protect from light. Once reconstituted, the solution should be used immediately or stored as per the manufacturer's instructions, typically for up to 24 hours in a refrigerator.
Shelf LifeRefer to the expiry date on the vial or carton. Do not use after the expiry date.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always administer this medicine under the supervision of an oncologist in a setting equipped to manage infusion reactions.
2
Perform a baseline cardiac assessment including LVEF before starting treatment and repeat every 3 months.
3
Premedicate with antipyretics and antihistamines as needed to reduce infusion-related reactions.
4
Monitor patients closely during the first infusion and for at least 30 minutes after completion.
5
Advise female patients of childbearing potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 7 months after the last dose.
6
Educate patients to report any signs of heart failure such as shortness of breath, ankle swelling, or palpitations immediately.
7
Avoid concurrent use with anthracyclines whenever possible to reduce cardiotoxicity risk.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

HER2-positive breast cancer
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this condition.
Likely Use
HER2-positive gastric cancer
This medicine is used in combination with chemotherapy for this condition.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is administered by intravenous infusion and is therefore completely bioavailable without an absorption phase. Not established from the available information for other routes.
DistributionFollowing intravenous administration, this medicine distributes primarily within the vascular space and extracellular fluid. Not established from the available information for tissue-specific distribution volumes.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismThis medicine is a monoclonal antibody and is expected to be metabolized by general protein catabolism into small peptides and amino acids. It does not undergo significant hepatic cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 28 days in patients with breast cancer, but it can vary with tumour burden and other factors. Not established from the available information for all populations.
ExcretionNot established from the available information.
BioavailabilityThis medicine is given intravenously, so its bioavailability is essentially 100%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action of this medicine is not immediate; therapeutic effects develop over weeks to months of treatment. Not established from the available information for a specific onset time.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration occurs at the end of the intravenous infusion. Not established from the available information for exact values.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action of this medicine is prolonged due to its long half-life, with effects lasting for weeks after a dose. Not established from the available information for a precise duration.

How It Works

This medicine is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that binds with high affinity to the extracellular domain of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). By binding to HER2, it blocks ligand-independent HER2 signalling and prevents HER2-mediated activation of downstream pathways such as PI3K/AKT and MAPK, which are involved in cell growth and survival. It also recruits immune effector cells and mediates antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity against HER2-overexpressing cancer cells. Additionally, it may inhibit HER2 shedding and downregulate HER2 receptor expression on the cell surface.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to HER2 receptor: This medicine binds selectively to the extracellular domain of the HER2 receptor on the surface of cancer cells.
2
Blockade of growth signalling: Binding prevents HER2 from transmitting growth and survival signals through downstream pathways such as PI3K/AKT and MAPK.
3
Immune-mediated cell killing: The bound antibody recruits immune effector cells such as natural killer cells, which destroy the cancer cell through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity.
4
Inhibition of HER2 shedding: This medicine also prevents the cleavage of the extracellular domain of HER2, reducing the formation of a soluble HER2 fragment that can promote tumour growth.

💡 How to Take vivitra 440mg injection

Strength: Injection: 440 mg per vial (lyophilized powder for concentrate for solution for infusion)

1This medicine is given by a healthcare professional as an intravenous infusion.
2The first infusion is usually given over 90 minutes.
3Subsequent infusions may be given over 30 minutes if the first dose is well tolerated.
4You will be monitored during and after the infusion for any reactions.
5Premedication with antipyretics and antihistamines may be given to reduce infusion reactions.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, patient's weight, cardiac function, and treatment protocol. For early breast cancer, a common regimen is an initial loading dose followed by maintenance doses every three weeks or weekly, often in combination with chemotherapy. For metastatic breast cancer and gastric cancer, different schedules may be used. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. This medicine is given as an intravenous infusion over 90 minutes for the first dose and over 30 minutes for subsequent doses if the first dose is well tolerated.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients based on age alone. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to cardiotoxicity and should be monitored closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is recommended for renal impairment based on available information. Not established from the available information for severe renal impairment.
Hepatic ImpairmentNot established from the available information. Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.
Maximum Daily DoseNot applicable as this medicine is not given daily. The maximum dose is determined by the treatment protocol and must be individualized by a qualified clinician.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

No specific food restrictions
Eat a balanced diet
Maintains general health during treatment.
Grapefruit
No known interaction
This medicine is not metabolized by CYP3A4, so grapefruit is not a concern.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 You miss your scheduled infusion appointment
→ Contact your treating centre as soon as possible to reschedule.
💡 Do not attempt to self-administer or double the dose.
📌 You are unable to attend due to illness
→ Inform your oncologist and follow their advice on rescheduling.
💡 Your doctor will determine the best time to resume treatment.

⚠️ Side Effects of vivitra 440mg injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Fever (Common (10-30%))
May occur during or after infusion. Inform your nurse or doctor. It usually resolves with supportive care.
Chills (Common (10-30%))
Report to your healthcare provider. They may slow the infusion or give medicines to reduce symptoms.
Headache (Common (10-20%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult your doctor if it persists or is severe.
Nausea (Common (10-20%))
Take anti-nausea medicines as prescribed. Eat small, frequent meals.
Fatigue (Common (10-20%))
Get adequate rest and pace your activities. Report if it interferes with daily life.
Diarrhoea (Common (10-20%))
Stay hydrated. Inform your doctor if it becomes severe or persistent.
Rash (Common (5-15%))
Report to your doctor. Avoid scratching. Use gentle skin care.
Joint pain (Common (5-15%))
Consult your doctor for pain relief options. Gentle exercise may help.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Cardiotoxicity (reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, heart failure) (Uncommon (1-5%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop shortness of breath, swelling of ankles, or palpitations. Regular heart monitoring is required.
Severe infusion-related reactions (Uncommon (1-5%))
Stop the infusion and seek emergency care if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe rash during infusion.
Pulmonary toxicity (interstitial lung disease, pneumonitis) (Rare (<1%))
Report new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, or fever to your doctor immediately.
Severe hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis (Rare (<1%))
Seek emergency care if you develop swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Nephrotic syndrome
Report swelling, foamy urine, or weight gain to your doctor.
Immune thrombocytopenia
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor.
Febrile neutropenia
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever with low blood counts.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Doxorubicin Major
Epirubicin Major
Paclitaxel Major
Live vaccines Moderate
Warfarin Moderate
Corticosteroids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Anthracyclines (e.g., doxorubicin, epirubicin)
  • Paclitaxel

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Live vaccines
  • Warfarin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

There is no known direct interaction between this medicine and alcohol. However, alcohol may worsen side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and liver stress. It is advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption during treatment.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known severe hypersensitivity to trastuzumab or any component of the formulation","Severe uncontrolled cardiac disease","Pregnancy, unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Cardiotoxicity: This medicine can reduce heart function. Monitor LVEF before and during treatment.","Infusion-related reactions: May occur during or shortly after infusion. Premedication may be given.","Pulmonary toxicity: Rare cases of interstitial lung disease have been reported. Monitor for respiratory symptoms.","Embryo-fetal toxicity: This medicine can cause fetal harm. Use effective contraception.","Immunosuppression: May increase risk of infections. Avoid live vaccines."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for seven months after the last dose.

💊 Overdose Management

There is no specific antidote for overdose with this medicine. In case of suspected overdose, treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Patients should be monitored closely for signs of toxicity, especially cardiac and infusion-related effects. Contact a poison control centre or emergency services immediately.

⏰ Missed Dose

This medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital. If you miss an appointment for your infusion, contact your treating centre as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer or double the dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must only be administered by a qualified healthcare professional in a setting equipped to manage infusion reactions and cardiac emergencies. Before starting treatment, your doctor will check your heart function with an echocardiogram or MUGA scan, and this will be repeated at regular intervals during treatment. Inform your doctor immediately if you develop shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, palpitations, or unusual tiredness, as these may be signs of heart problems. Do not receive any live vaccines while on this medicine without consulting your oncologist. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least seven months after the last dose if you are a woman of childbearing potential. Avoid becoming pregnant while on this medicine because it can harm the unborn baby. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for seven months after the last dose. Always carry your treatment card and inform any doctor treating you that you are receiving this medicine.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to cardiotoxicity and other side effects. Close monitoring of cardiac function and overall health is recommended. Dose adjustments are not typically required based on age alone, but individualization by a clinician is essential.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine can cause harm to the unborn baby. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least seven months after the last dose. If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before stopping treatment. Men with female partners of childbearing potential should also use effective contraception during treatment and for seven months after the last dose.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your surgeon and oncologist that you are receiving this medicine. There may be an increased risk of bleeding or infection. Your doctor will advise on the timing of surgery in relation to your treatment schedule.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are receiving this medicine before any dental procedure. There may be an increased risk of bleeding or infection. Your dentist may recommend antibiotics or other precautions. Do not undergo dental procedures without consulting your oncologist.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to support overall health during treatment.
🥗
Engage in light to moderate exercise as tolerated, such as walking or yoga.
😴
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
💧
Get adequate rest and sleep to help your body recover.
🧘
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
🌞
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
🚭
Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation or deep breathing.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

While on this medicine, you may experience fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance. Start with light activities and gradually increase as you feel able. Avoid strenuous exercise if you have heart-related symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Choose whole grains over refined grains.
Include lean proteins such as fish, chicken, and legumes.
Limit processed foods and added sugars.
Stay well hydrated throughout the day.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is given as an intravenous infusion, usually every three weeks, which may require time off work for appointments. You may experience fatigue, nausea, or other side effects that can affect your daily activities. Most patients are able to continue working with some adjustments. Discuss your work schedule with your doctor and employer to plan around treatment days.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your oncologist. Treatment duration is determined by your doctor based on your response, stage of cancer, and tolerance. If you experience severe side effects such as heart failure or severe infusion reactions, your doctor may decide to stop or pause treatment. Always follow your doctor's advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may be associated with persistent cardiac effects, including reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. Regular cardiac monitoring is required throughout treatment and after completion. Some patients may experience long-term fatigue or neuropathy if used with other medicines. The benefits of treatment generally outweigh the risks in HER2-positive cancers. Your doctor will determine the duration of treatment based on your response and tolerance.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Trastuzumab emtansine

An antibody-drug conjugate that combines trastuzumab with a chemotherapy agent, used in certain HER2-positive breast cancers.

Evidence: Well-established
Pertuzumab

A HER2 dimerization inhibitor used in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with this medicine because of the potential for increased risk of infection. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but their effectiveness may be reduced. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C

❌ DON'T

Do not freeze

✅ DO

Keep the vial in the original carton to protect from light

❌ DON'T

Do not expose to direct sunlight

✅ DO

Use reconstituted solution as per manufacturer's instructions

❌ DON'T

Do not use beyond the expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription and a letter from your doctor. This medicine is given in a hospital or infusion centre, so plan your travel around your treatment schedule. If you need to travel with the medicine, store it in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C and do not freeze. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines across borders. Always carry a copy of your medical records and treatment plan.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 52-year-old woman with HER2-positive early breast cancer
She was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer and started on this medicine as part of her adjuvant treatment. She experienced mild fever and chills during the first infusion, which were managed by slowing the infusion and giving paracetamol. Over the next few months, she continued treatment every three weeks with regular heart monitoring. She completed one year of therapy and remains cancer-free.
💡 Lesson: Infusion reactions are common with the first dose but can be managed effectively. Regular cardiac monitoring is essential throughout treatment.
👤 A 60-year-old man with HER2-positive metastatic gastric cancer
He was diagnosed with advanced gastric cancer that tested positive for HER2. He received this medicine in combination with chemotherapy. He experienced fatigue and mild nausea but was able to continue treatment. His tumour shrank significantly after a few cycles, and he was able to maintain his daily activities with some adjustments.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can be effective in HER2-positive gastric cancer when used with chemotherapy. Managing side effects with supportive care helps patients continue treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working soon after administration, but its full therapeutic effects develop over weeks to months. Your doctor will monitor your response with regular scans and tests.

Q: Can I take this medicine at home?

A: No, this medicine must be given by a healthcare professional as an intravenous infusion in a hospital or infusion centre.

Q: What should I do if I miss my infusion appointment?

A: Contact your treating centre as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer or double the dose.

Q: Does this medicine cause hair loss?

A: This medicine is a targeted therapy and does not typically cause hair loss. However, if used with chemotherapy, hair loss may occur due to the chemotherapy.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: No, this medicine can harm the unborn baby. Effective contraception should be used during treatment and for at least seven months after the last dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my heart function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?
  • Can I breastfeed while on this medicine?

🔄 Substitutes for vivitra 440mg injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is a chemotherapy that causes hair loss.
    Fact: This medicine is a targeted therapy, not traditional chemotherapy. It does not typically cause hair loss.
  • Myth: This medicine can be self-administered at home.
    Fact: This medicine must be given by a healthcare professional as an intravenous infusion in a clinical setting.
  • Myth: This medicine has no effect on the heart.
    Fact: This medicine can affect heart function and requires regular cardiac monitoring.

🔄 Alternative Options

Brand Alternatives

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Trastuzumab","class":"HER2 monoclonal antibody","route":"Intravenous","main_use":"HER2-positive breast and gastric cancer"},{"medicine":"Trastuzumab emtansine","class":"Antibody-drug conjugate","route":"Intravenous","main_use":"HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer"}]

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