Triple positive

[Nocillo]

Does anyone here have triple positive breast cancer? I know someone just diagnosed and would like to know which drugs are used for it. Thank you.

[Hazelgreen]

Apparently, there are a range of treatment options for triple positive. Google "triple positive breast cancer".

[mbc_carepartner]

Nocillo—my sister is 4 years into her triple positive MBC journey. The first line standard of care is known as THP or TCHP.

The T is a systemic infused chemotherapy, a taxane (typically paclitaxel or “taxol” for short). The dosing schedule is typically either weekly at a lower dose with lower side effect profile, or every three weeks. It can be administered over 12-18 or even 24 weeks depending on patient response. Then it is discontinued.

The HP stands for two antibodies that attack the HER2 protein, Herceptin and Perjeta. These drugs are given via infusion, every three weeks, ongoing. Herceptin is known as the wonder drug, as it has dramatically improved the prognosis since its discovery and approval. These drugs are mostly well tolerated though do have side effects for some. Heart monitoring via ECG is required on a routine basis, for example.

The C is carboplatin, an oral chemotherapy, which is not always given.

I’m here for you if you have questions. A great resource for you is the NCCN Guidelines for Patients for Breast Cancer. Google to find the downloadable PDF and create a free account.

All my best to you as an awesome care partner who is out here seeking information on behalf of your friend.

[Kcap430 in reply to mbc_carepartner]

This is exactly the protocol I have been on for the last year when my progressive showed a mutation,to Triple Positive. I have found it to be pretty tolerable

[mbc_carepartner in reply to mbc_carepartner]

One more thing—to suppress estrogen, after chemotherapy is discontinued, patients typically start an aromatase inhibitor (AI), such as Letrozole. This is a daily oral med that is given ongoing, in addition to the HP infusions every three weeks. Sorry I forgot to mention this above.

[Nocillo in reply to mbc_carepartner]

Thank you!