PEMETREXED
Background and Date of Approval
Pemetrexed is an anticancer medication approved by the U.S. FDA on 4 February 2004 for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma and non-small cell lung carcinoma.
Uses
Pemetrexed is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma (cancers of the lungs and chest). Pemetrexed Injection is given alone or in combination with another anticancer medicine, such as Cisplatin.
How is it administered?
Pemetrexed is an intravenous infusion drug that is injected through the veins. Your physician will choose the dosage and administration frequency based on your medical condition because it differs for each person.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Pemetrexed are fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, redness, swelling or sores in the mouth, loss of appetite, sensation, reduced hemoglobin level, increased skin pigmentation, muscle weakness, constipation, hair loss, watery and inflamed eyes, taste change, skin rashes. Some serious effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Pemetrexed injections are blood infection, abnormal liver function, breathlessness, intense chest pain or cough with bloody sputum, severe allergic reaction, kidney failure, reduced neutrophil granulocytes (white blood cells), pharyngitis (a sore throat).
Warnings
Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding because this may cause harm to the unborn baby. If you are breastfeeding, it has stopped immediately. Conditions such as , myelosuppression, embryo fetal toxicity, interstitial pneumonitis, and renal failure are associated with this medicine. Consult a doctor for more information. Discuss your fertility problem with the doctor because, in men, it is advised not to father a child during and after the 3 months of treatment. So it is advised to get suggestions about fertility concerns. Inform your doctor if you have or had any history of heart disease, kidney problems, fluid accumulation in the lungs, or severe liver problems.
Precautions
You will need to have regular blood tests while taking Pemetrexed to monitor your blood cell counts, blood uric acid level, and kidney function. Notify your doctor immediately if you have undergone any radiotherapy or taken any vaccines and other medications before starting with Pemetrexed because it might reduce the effectiveness of this medicine and may cause side effects. Pemetrexed is not recommended for children or adults under 18 years. Talk with your doctor for more information.
Word of Advice
Use effective birth control during treatment and for at least six months after the final dose of Pemetrexed Injection. Store away from light and moisture. Maintain refrigerated storage at 2°C to 8°C. Keep out of reach of children and animals.
References
KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs,7th edition, 2013, 863. Eagle Pharmaceuticals, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on Feb 2020] [ Accessed on 27 - March - 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/209472s000lbl.pdf Seacross Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [ Accessed on 27 - March - 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.8887.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I tell my doctor before starting Pemetrexed?
Before starting Pemetrexed, you should tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially kidney or liver problems, as well as any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Can children or adults take Pemetrexed?
No, Pemetrexed is not recommended for children or adults under 18 years. Talk with your doctor for more information.
How often do I need to have blood tests while on Pemetrexed?
You will need to have regular blood tests while taking Pemetrexed to monitor your blood cell counts, blood uric acid level, and kidney function.
Can I continue my normal activities while on Pemetrexed?
It depends on your circumstances and how you feel. You should discuss your activities and any concerns with your healthcare provider.
How is Pemetrexed administered?
A healthcare provider gives Pemetrexed as an intravenous (IV) injection. The dose and frequency of the injections will depend on the patient's condition and other factors.
Why do I feel nauseous while taking pemetrexed?
Nausea is a common side effect of chemotherapy drugs, including pemetrexed. This happens because chemotherapy drugs can affect the lining of the stomach, leading to nausea and vomiting.