Treatments for HER2+ metastatic breast cancer

Very effective treatments are available for people with HER2+ metastatic breast cancer.

Usually, you will have a combination of treatments. Often, chemotherapy and HER2 targeted medication are the first treatment ('first line').

When this stops working, or you have too many side effects, you will have another ('second line') HER2 targeted treatment.

Many different types of HER2 targeted treatments are available, so they can often control the cancer for many years.

Your treating team will talk to you about your options. The plan they recommend will consider your individual cancer and your preferences.

HER2 targeted therapies

‘HER2 targeted therapies’ attack cancer cells but mostly do not affect normal cells. They target breast cancer cells that carry the HER2 receptor protein.

Read about HER2 targeted therapies.

Trastuzumab (Herceptin and other brands)

The main HER2 targeted therapy is trastuzumab. The most common brand for trastuzumab is Herceptin. It works by attaching to the HER2 protein on the surface of some breast cancer cells. This stops the cells from dividing and growing.

Herceptin is usually given as an injection under the skin or as an IV (intravenous) injection.

Other brand names for trastuzumab include:

• Herzuma
• Ogivri
• Kanjinti
• Trazimera.

Read more about Targeted therapies for metastatic breast cancer.

Hormone-blocking therapies

HER2-positive breast cancer can also be hormone receptor positive (‘triple positive’). You will usually be offered a hormone-blocking therapy.

This often starts after you have stopped the chemotherapy part of your treatment.

Read about Hormone-blocking therapy for metastatic breast cancer.

Research and clinical trials for HER2-positive breast cancer

Clinical trials have shown that chemotherapy with HER2 targeted therapies is very effective for HER2-positive breast cancer.

Current trials are testing HER2 targeted drugs with newer treatments such as immunotherapy. These may lead to new treatments and better outcomes.

Ask your doctor about any clinical trials that may be suitable for you.

Support for treatment decisions

Some people find it helpful to connect with others who have the same type or subtype of breast cancer. Our Online Network is a safe and supportive place to find people facing the same decisions.

Our Helpline is also available on 1800 500 258 between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm AEST Monday to Friday. Contact us if you have questions about your diagnosis or treatment.