A Pharmacist’s Guide to the Use of Targeted Therapy for HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

Add-on activity

This activity features patient case reviews.

Program Description

Overexpression of human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) occurs in up to 25% of all breast cancer cases. HER2-positive breast cancer carries higher rates of disease recurrence and mortality, and 30% of local and regional diagnoses progress to metastatic disease despite treatment. Recently, a newer designation of HER2-low breast cancer has been established, increasing the number of patients who may qualify for HER2-targeted therapies. Monoclonal antibodies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and antibody-drug conjugates are currently standard of care for metastatic disease, but new combinations and novel therapies are under investigation. This program will inform pharmacists about the mechanism of agents used for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, adverse effects associated with these therapies, and guideline recommendations to individualize treatment. Several patient cases discussed by clinical experts throughout the presentation will help pharmacists understand the nuances of treating patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer.

Target audience: Health-system and oncology pharmacists

Type of activity: Application
Release date: December 21, 2022
Expiration date: December 21, 2023

Time to complete activity: 1.5 hours
Fee: Free

Educational Objectives

At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Explain the relevance of human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) status in the selection of an appropriate targeted therapy for breast cancer
• Differentiate systemic therapies in treating metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer by pharmacology, safety, and pearls for use in clinical practice
• Employ knowledge of updated clinical guidelines to individualize treatment strategies
• Apply management strategies to recognize and resolve treatment complications and adverse effects associated with HER2-targeted therapy