Perjeta (pertuzumab)
Genentech / Roche · HER2 Dimerization Inhibitor
What is Perjeta? Perjeta (pertuzumab) is a HER2 dimerization inhibitor by Genentech/Roche used with trastuzumab and chemotherapy for HER2-positive breast cancer. Combined pertuzumab + trastuzumab + docetaxel (PHD) is a standard first-line regimen for metastatic HER2+ breast cancer.
About Perjeta
| Brand Name | Perjeta |
| Generic / INN | pertuzumab |
| Drug Class | HER2 Dimerization Inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Genentech / Roche |
| Administration | Intravenous (IV) infusion |
| FDA Approval | 2012 |
FDA-Approved Uses
- HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer — with trastuzumab and docetaxel as first-line
- HER2-positive early breast cancer — neoadjuvant (with trastuzumab and chemotherapy)
- HER2-positive early breast cancer — adjuvant (with trastuzumab after neoadjuvant)
How Does Perjeta Work?
Pertuzumab binds HER2 at a different epitope from trastuzumab, blocking HER2 dimerization with HER3 and other HER family members. Combined with trastuzumab, this provides dual HER2 blockade producing synergistic anti-tumor activity.
Dosage & Administration
840 mg IV loading dose, then 420 mg every 3 weeks. First infusion over 60 minutes; if tolerated, subsequent over 30 minutes. Always combined with trastuzumab.
Dosing is individualized by the treating oncologist. Do not adjust without medical guidance. This page is educational only.
Warnings & Side Effects
- Cardiomyopathy / decreased LVEF
- Embryo-fetal toxicity
- Infusion-related reactions
Common Side Effects
- Diarrhea
- Alopecia
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Infusion-related reactions
Storage & Handling
Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
💰 Medication Cost & Insurance Coverage
Approximate Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC / List Price)
~$4,000–$7,000/cycle
420mg every 3 weeks
Insurance & Prior Authorization
Perjeta requires prior authorization from all major insurance plans. BiologicHealthPlus handles the full PA process — clinical documentation, peer-to-peer reviews, and appeals — at no cost to patients or providers.
Prior Authorization Guide Patient Assistance Insurance & Savings
Frequently Asked Questions — Perjeta
Perjeta is a HER2 dimerization inhibitor that blocks HER2 from pairing with HER3. Combined with trastuzumab and chemotherapy it is standard first-line therapy for metastatic HER2+ breast cancer.
Yes — Phesgo combines pertuzumab + trastuzumab + hyaluronidase as a fixed SC injection given in approximately 5–8 minutes.
Perjeta is covered by Medicare Part B and commercial insurance for HER2+ breast cancer with prior authorization.
Related Medications & Conditions
Related Medications
Herceptin (trastuzumab) · Kadcyla (T-DM1) · Enhertu · Phesgo (SC combination)
Related Conditions
HER2-positive breast cancer · Metastatic HER2+ breast cancer · Early breast cancer