Pemetrexed Disodium

Generic Name: pemetrexed disodium

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Pemetrexed

Pemetrexed injection is a folate analog metabolic inhibitor indicated for the treatment of non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Overview

Pemetrexed injection is a folate analog metabolic inhibitor indicated for the treatment of non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Uses

Indicated for non-squamous NSCLC treatment in various combination regimens and as single-agent maintenance therapy. Also indicated for malignant pleural mesothelioma when used with cisplatin.

Dosage

Standard dose is 500 mg/m2 administered as an intravenous infusion over 10 minutes on Day 1 of each 21-day cycle. Required vitamin supplementation with folic acid and vitamin B12. Corticosteroid premedication is required.

Side Effects

Common reactions include fatigue, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, decreased appetite, rash, vomiting, cough, dyspnea, and pyrexia depending on treatment combination.

Interactions

Avoid ibuprofen and OAT3 inhibitors. Monitor for increased toxicity if concurrent use is unavoidable.

Warnings

Risk of myelosuppression, renal failure, bullous and exfoliative skin toxicity, interstitial pneumonitis, radiation recall, and embryo-fetal toxicity. Contraindicated in patients with history of severe hypersensitivity reaction to pemetrexed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pemetrexed Disodium used for?

Indicated for non-squamous NSCLC treatment in various combination regimens and as single-agent maintenance therapy. Also indicated for malignant pleural mesothelioma when used with cisplatin.

What are the side effects of Pemetrexed Disodium?

Common reactions include fatigue, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, decreased appetite, rash, vomiting, cough, dyspnea, and pyrexia depending on treatment combination.

What are the important warnings for Pemetrexed Disodium?

Risk of myelosuppression, renal failure, bullous and exfoliative skin toxicity, interstitial pneumonitis, radiation recall, and embryo-fetal toxicity. Contraindicated in patients with history of severe hypersensitivity reaction to pemetrexed.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.