1 Herceptin dose 3 weeks before Kadcyla?

[NEDhelper]

Hi, Everyone -- I have helped arrange for my friend to travel to get Kadcyla in Australia (it's not available in China, where she lives). However, because of the visa process, it will likely be about 3+ weeks from now before she actually has Kadcyla in her system.

Normally this might be less of a concern, but she has already waited 4 months since Stage 4 dx with no treatment, and grew 2 axillary node tumors in the meantime. I don't like the idea of waiting much longer.

She is on some supplements now, but as Herceptin is available in China (she had it before for 1 year), does anyone know a reason not to try a single dose before moving to Kadcyla (which obviously continues the Herceptin with the addition of emtansine)?

Many thanks for any thoughts (which, of course, won't be construed as medical advice, etc.)

[Jackie07]

Can you contact her potential doctor/hospital to get their advice/O.K.?

My understanding is that Kadcyla (or T-DM1) is Herceptin given via an additional element (emtansine) to help better carry the drug to the target. Theoretically, then, there shoulden't be a problem.

Now the supplement she's taking could be a different story, depending on what she's taking. I took/drink Lingzhih during my chemo without any ill effect (It actually helped with the appetite).

[NEDhelper]

Thanks, Jackie! We certainly consulted her oncologist as well (who thinks it should be OK, too). Theoretically it should be fine.. was just curious if anyone had done it.. I agree with you, too. Ling Zhi (灵芝) is very commonly used in China for a number of things; may consider that for my friend as well... thanks!