About pembrolizu mab
PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor
Used for
- Several cancers, including melanoma, lung, head and neck, kidney, bladder, and certain bowel cancers.
- Some cancers with specific biomarkers or high mutation burden.
Usual adult dose
Usually 200 mg intravenously every 3 weeks, or 400 mg every 6 weeks; regimen varies by cancer.
Usual dose in children
For eligible cancers, usually 2 mg/kg intravenously every 3 weeks, maximum 200 mg; some regimens allow 4 mg/kg every 6 weeks.
Common side effects
- Tiredness, rash, itching, diarrhea, nausea, and reduced appetite.
- Immune-related inflammation affecting the lungs, bowel, liver, kidneys, skin, or hormone glands.
- Infusion reactions and muscle or joint pain.
Important warnings
- Immune side effects can be severe, delayed, or life-threatening; prompt assessment is important.
- May cause serious complications after organ or stem-cell transplant.
- Treatment requires monitoring; new or worsening symptoms need clinical review.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.
Breastfeeding
Avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.
Interactions
- Other immune-activating cancer treatments may increase immune-related side effects.
- Immunosuppressant medicines, including corticosteroids, may affect treatment; use depends on the clinical situation.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.