Herceptin vs. Trastuzumab

[Joan M]

I took Herceptin initially, but when I changed oncologist I was given Trastuzumab, the generic form of Herceptin.

Does anyone know whether the generic form is as effective as the brand?

I've often thought about this, and I'm wondering whether anybody has heard anything on the subject.

I also plan to ask my oncologist at my next visit.

Joan

[StephN]

Joan -
These are TWO names for the same drug. No difference AT ALL.

My onc's order is for Herceptin and from the pharmacy it says Trastuzemab, the scientific name vs. the marketing name.

[Yorkiegirl]

It is the same thing. It goes by both names.

[PinkGirl]

They are the very same thing......no diff.

[Brenda_D]

There are no generic replacements for Herceptin.

Congress just passed a bill that allows generics to be made for "biologics", but the original manufacturer has a 13 year lock on them, before a generic can be introduced on the market.
For Herceptin that means 3 more years of no generic replacement.

[vickie h]

Herceptin Is The Lay Name, The Other Is The Clinical Name- Both One And The Same. All Drugs Have 2 Names, One For Us Lay Persons, The Other For Clinical/pharmaceutical. Tykerb Is Actually Lapatinib, Etc. Love, Vickie

[Joan M]

Thank you clarifying the difference between a brand name and the drug's chemical name.

I feel much better knowing that the two drugs are the same.

Also, it's interesting to know that Genentech has a 13 year patent on Herceptin before another manufacturer can try to replicate the drug.