What is pemetrexed and how does it work?
Non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma are treated with pemetrexed (a form of lung cancer associated with asbestos exposure). Pemetrexed is frequently used in conjunction with other cancer treatments. Pemetrexed can be used for a variety of other things that aren't covered in this pharmaceutical guide.
Follow the directions on the label and container of your drug. All of your medical conditions, allergies, and medications should be disclosed to each of your healthcare providers.
Before you start taking any medication, make sure you have everything you need.
If you are allergic to pemetrexed, you should not be treated with it.
If you've ever had any of the following, tell your doctor.
- kidney failure; or
- therapy with x-rays
If either the mother or the father uses it, it can harm the unborn child or cause birth abnormalities.
If you're a woman, avoid using pemetrexed if you're expecting. Prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine and for at least 6 months after your final dosage by using effective birth control. If your sex partner is capable of becoming pregnant, take adequate birth control if you are a man. After your last dose, continue to use birth control for at least 3 months. If you think you're pregnant, call your doctor immediately away.
Men's fertility (ability to have children) may be affected by this medication. However, because pemetrexed can harm an unborn baby, it is critical to utilize birth control to avoid conception. You should not breastfeed for at least 1 week following your last dose of pemetrexed if you are taking it.
How is pemetrexed administered?
the folic acid dosage that your doctor has prescribed
Every three weeks, pemetrexed is administered. The number of treatment cycles you should undergo will be determined by your doctor.
To avoid any of pemetrexed's negative effects, you'll need to take folic acid pills and get vitamin B12 injections (starting 7 days before your first dose of pemetrexed). Only take as much folic acid as you need.
Your doctor may also prescribe a steroid medicine to help you cope with pemetrexed's negative effects. Pay close attention to your doctor's dosing instructions.
If you're unwell with vomiting or diarrhea, or if you're sweating more than normal, call your doctor. When taking pemetrexed, it's easy to become dehydrated. This can result in dangerously low blood pressure, an electrolyte imbalance, or kidney failure.
Pemetrexed can reduce the number of blood cells that help your body fight infections and clot. Your blood will need to be tested regularly. The findings of these tests may cause your cancer treatments to be postponed.
What should I stay away from when getting pemetrexed?
If you have renal problems, you should not take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for 2 days before or after pemetrexed treatment.
Avoid being close to persons who are unwell or infected. If you notice any signs of infection, contact your doctor right once.
Avoid engaging in activities that put you in danger of bleeding or injury. When shaving or brushing your teeth, take extra precautions to avoid bleeding.
Do not receive a "live" vaccine while using pemetrexed, and avoid coming into contact with anyone who has recently received a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus could be passed on to you. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), zoster (shingles), and nasal flu (influenza) vaccine.
Side effects of pemetrexed
If you have symptoms of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction, get immediate medical attention (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).
If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor right once.
urination is minimal or non-existent;
Cough that is new or worsening, fever, or difficulty breathing;
Blisters, edema, or redness
What additional medications will affect pemetrexed?
Pemetrexed can impair your kidneys if you also take other medications for infections, cancer, osteoporosis, organ transplant rejection, gastrointestinal disorders, high blood pressure, or pain or arthritis (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve).
Other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal items, may interact with pemetrexed. Tell your doctor about all of your current medical conditions.