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Margetuximab
  • Treatments
  • Breast Cancer
  • Metastatic

Margetuximab

Generic name: margetuximab [ MAR-je-TUX-i-mab ]
Brand name: Margenza
Dosage form: intravenous solution (25 mg/mL)
Drug class:HER2 inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 16, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is margetuximab?

Margetuximab is used in combination with other cancer drugs to treat HER2-positive breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic).

Margetuximab is for use in people who have received at least two prior chemotherapy treatments for HER2-positive breast cancer.

Your doctor will test to make sure your cancer has an abnormal "HER2/neu" gene (a specific genetic marker).

Margetuximab may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Margetuximab may cause heart problems. Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms such as: fast or pounding heartbeats, cough, shortness of breath, swelling, or rapid weight gain.

Before taking this medicine

Tell your doctor if you have ever had heart problems.

You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.

Margetuximab may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant. Keep using birth control for at least 4 months after your last dose.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using margetuximab, and for at least 4 months after your last dose. Ask your doctor about any risk.

How is margetuximab given?

Margetuximab is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Margetuximab is usually given once every 3 weeks. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Margetuximab must be given slowly, and the infusion can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete. This medicine is sometimes given right after you've received other chemotherapy medication.

Your heart function may need to be checked using an electrocardiograph (sometimes called an EKG) or ultrasound. Your cancer treatments may be delayed or permanently discontinued based on the results.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your margetuximab injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Since margetuximab is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid while receiving margetuximab?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Margetuximab side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of a...