My next two Herceptin injections which are numbers 4 & 5 of 18 have been postponed as my recent MUGA Heart Scan came back at 49% and the lowest it can be is 50%. I have been given a prescription for Ramipril and a referral to cardiology. I’m really worried that this break in my treatment will reduce the effectiveness. My Oncologist said that she would arrange for another heart scan in six weeks. Will I have to start the Herceptin again or just carry on where I left off. If my heart function doesn’t improve and I can’t continue with Herceptin is there any alternative. I’m really worried 
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Hi dianne3,
Thanks for posting. It’s understandable to be worried about having a break in your trastuzumab (Herceptin) treatment because of the effects on your heart.
Trastuzumab can cause heart problems and its not unusual for it to be paused. Its important treatment outweighs the risks, so pausing it will allow your heart to be assessed by the cardiologist and for it to recover. If your next heart scan in 6 weeks shows that you can restart the trastuzumab you won’t need to start again you will continue for the 18 therapies in total.
You might find it helpful to connect with other women who perhaps have experienced something similar. You can do this through online forum and Someone Like Me service.
It’s difficult to say what the alternatives might be if you cannot continue with the trastuzumab as we don’t know the details of your diagnosis and treatment plan. You could speak to your treatment team about this and you are welcome to call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
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Best wishes,
Jane
Breast Care Nurse
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