Pemetrexed Injection
Pemetrexed injection is used in combination with other chemotherapy medications as a first treatment for a certain type of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread to nearby tissues or to other parts of the body. Pemetrexed injection is also used alone to treat NSCLC as ongoing treatment in people who have already received certain chemotherapy medications and whose cancer has not worsened and in people who could not be treated successfully with other chemotherapy medications. Pemetrexed injection is also in combination with another chemotherapy medication as a first treatment for malignant pleural mesothelioma (a type of cancer that affects the inside lining of the chest cavity) in people who cannot be treated with surgery. Pemetrexed is in a class of medications called antifolate antineoplastic agents. It works by blocking the action of a certain substance in the body that may help cancer cells multiply.
🔔 How should this medicine be used?
Pemetrexed injection comes as a solution (liquid) and as a powder to be mixed with liquid to be injected into a vein over 10 minutes. Pemetrexed injection is administered by a doctor or nurse in a medical office or infusion center. It is usually given once every 21 days.
Your doctor will probably tell you to take other medications, such as folic acid (a vitamin), vitamin B12, and a corticosteroid such as dexamethasone to decrease some of the side effects of this medication. Your doctor will give you directions for taking these medications. Follow your doctor’s directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. If you miss a dose of one of these medications, call your doctor.
Your doctor will tell you to have regular blood tests before and during treatment with pemetrexed injection. Your doctor may change your dose of pemetrexed injection, delay treatment, or permanently stop your treatment based on the results of the blood tests.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer’s information for the patient.
🔔 Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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