Home > PEMETREXED

Pemetrexed

This page provides concise information about the drug pemetrexed, including its indications, dosage and administration, mechanism of action, related brands with strengths, warnings, and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

On February 4, 2004, the U.S. FDA approved Pemetrexed as an anticancer medication for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma and non-small cell lung carcinoma.

Mechanism of Action of Pemetrexed

Pemetrexed hinders the process essential for cell division and replication by obstructing specific enzymes engaged in folate metabolism (critical for cell replication) and DNA synthesis. This action prevents the growth and multiplication of cancer cells.

AVAILABLE BRANDS

VIEW ALL
Pemgem 100mg Injection
Dr.Reddy's Laboratories Ltd ₹5,373.00

Uses of Pemetrexed

Pemetrexed is utilized for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma (cancers affecting the lungs and chest). Pemetrexed Injection is administered either as a standalone treatment or in combination with another anticancer medication, such as Cisplatin.

Pemetrexed Drug administaration and Dosage available

Pemetrexed is prescribed for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma (cancers affecting the lungs and chest). Pemetrexed Injection is administered either as a standalone treatment or in combination with another anticancer medication, such as Cisplatin.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Pemetrexed

Warnings

Do not use this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may pose risks to the unborn baby. If breastfeeding, discontinue immediately. This medicine is associated with conditions such as myelosuppression, embryo-fetal toxicity, interstitial pneumonitis, and renal failure. For more information, consult a doctor. Discuss fertility concerns with your doctor, especially in men, as it is recommended to avoid fathering a child during and up to three months after the treatment. Seek advice on fertility matters. Inform your doctor of any history of heart disease, kidney problems, fluid accumulation in the lungs, or severe liver problems.

Precautions

Regular blood tests are necessary while undergoing Pemetrexed treatment to monitor blood cell counts, blood uric acid levels, and kidney function. If you have undergone radiotherapy, received vaccines, or taken other medications before starting Pemetrexed, inform your doctor immediately, as it may affect the effectiveness of the medicine and lead to potential side effects. Pemetrexed is not recommended for individuals under 18 years, including children and adolescents. For more information, consult your doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects associated with Pemetrexed include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, redness, swelling or sores in the mouth, loss of appetite, altered sensation, decreased hemoglobin levels, increased skin pigmentation, muscle weakness, constipation, hair loss, watery and inflamed eyes, taste changes, and skin rashes.
Serious effects that may occur during Pemetrexed injection treatment include blood infection, abnormal liver function, breathlessness, intense chest pain, cough with bloody sputum, severe allergic reactions, kidney failure, reduced neutrophil granulocytes (white blood cells), and pharyngitis (sore throat).

Word Of Advice

Ensure the use of effective birth control during the treatment and for at least six months after the last dose of Pemetrexed Injection. Store the tablets away from light and moisture, refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C. Keep the tablets out of the reach of children and animals.

Frequently Asked Question

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.
No, Pemetrexed is not recommended for children or adults under 18 years. Talk with your doctor for more information.
You will need to have regular blood tests while taking Pemetrexed to monitor your blood cell counts, blood uric acid level, and kidney function.
It depends on your circumstances and how you feel. You should discuss your activities and any concerns with your healthcare provider.
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.
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. 

References

  1. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs,7th edition, 2013, 863.
  2. 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
  3. Seacross Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [ Accessed on 27 – March – 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.8887.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.