Can Enhertu be used for HER2-low breast cancer?

What is HER2-low breast cancer?

HER2-low breast cancer refers to a type of breast cancer with a low level of HER2 protein expression, typically defined as less than 10% of tumor cells expressing HER2 [1]. HER2 is a protein that promotes the growth of cancer cells, and while many breast cancers overexpress HER2, HER2-low breast cancers have a different response to treatments.

Can Enhertu be used for HER2-low breast cancer?

As of now, Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) is approved by the FDA for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, and there is limited evidence to support its use in HER2-low breast cancer patients [2]. However, several ongoing clinical trials are investigating Enhertu's efficacy in patients with HER2-low breast cancer, such as the DESTINY-LV11 trial [3].

Why is Enhertu approved for HER2-positive but not HER2-low breast cancer?

Enhertu is designed to target and bind to the HER2 protein on cancer cells, delivering a toxic payload to kill the cells. Since HER2-low breast cancers have a lower expression of the HER2 protein, it is unclear whether Enhertu would be effective in treating this type of cancer.

What are the ongoing clinical trials for Enhertu in HER2-low breast cancer?

Several trials are currently underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Enhertu in patients with HER2-low breast cancer. These trials aim to determine whether Enhertu is effective in this patient population and whether it offers a benefit over other treatments.

What are the potential risks and benefits of using Enhertu for HER2-low breast cancer?

While Enhertu has shown promise in treating HER2-positive breast cancer, its use in HER2-low breast cancer is still experimental. As with any cancer treatment, there are potential risks and benefits to consider, including the risk of side effects and the potential for delayed tumor growth.

DrugPatentWatch.com provides information on patent expiry and drug pricing, which may be relevant for patients considering Enhertu as a treatment option [4].

Sources

[1] National Cancer Institute. HER2 and HER2-positive.

[2] FDA. Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) label.

[3] ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study of Trastuzumab Deruxtecan in Participants With HER2-Positive Breast Cancer or HER2- Low Breast Cancer.

[4] DrugPatentWatch.com. Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) patents and pricing.

Sources:
1. National Cancer Institute. HER2 and HER2-positive.
2. FDA. Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) label.
3. ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study of Trastuzumab Deruxtecan in Participants With HER2-Positive Breast Cancer or HER2- Low Breast Cancer.
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) patents and pricing.