The other name for Herzuma is Trastuzumab. Herzuma is a biosimilar form of the drug Trastuzumab.
Understanding Herzuma and Trastuzumab
Herzuma is a brand name for a biosimilar drug that contains the active ingredient Trastuzumab. Biosimilars are highly similar versions of an approved original biologic medicine, also known as the reference product. They are approved based on demonstrating no clinically meaningful differences from the reference product in terms of safety, purity, and potency.
The original or reference biologic drug, Trastuzumab, is marketed under various trade names, most notably Herceptin.
What is Trastuzumab?
Trastuzumab is a targeted therapy medication classified as a monoclonal antibody. It is designed to specifically target and block the effects of the HER2 protein, which can be overexpressed in certain types of cancer cells, particularly some breast cancers and gastric cancers. By binding to HER2 receptors, Trastuzumab can help slow or stop the growth of these cancer cells.
Herzuma and Trastuzumab Relationship
The relationship between Herzuma and Trastuzumab can be summarized as follows:
| Brand/Biosimilar Name | Generic/Biologic Name | Type of Drug |
|---|---|---|
| Herzuma | Trastuzumab | Biosimilar |
The Role of Biosimilars
Biosimilars like Herzuma offer a more affordable alternative to their reference biologic products. They undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are as safe and effective as the original drug, providing patients with comparable treatment options. The development of biosimilars helps to increase access to important biologic therapies and reduce healthcare costs.
