About pemetrexed
Antimetabolite chemotherapy; antifolate
Used for
- Mesothelioma, usually with cisplatin
- Non-small-cell lung cancer, alone or with other medicines
Usual adult dose
Usually 500 mg/m² by intravenous infusion every 3 weeks; dose depends on cancer and treatment combination.
Common side effects
- Low blood-cell counts, increasing infection or bleeding risk
- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Rash or mouth sores
Important warnings
- Requires blood tests and monitoring of kidney function and blood counts.
- Folic acid and vitamin B12 are used to reduce serious side effects.
- Avoid during pregnancy; treatment can harm an unborn baby.
- Seek prompt assessment for fever, unusual bleeding, or severe allergic reactions.
Pregnancy
Can harm an unborn baby. Avoid pregnancy during treatment; effective contraception is recommended.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for at least one week after the final dose.
Interactions
- Ibuprofen and some other NSAIDs may increase side effects, especially with reduced kidney function.
- Other medicines that affect the kidneys or bone marrow may increase toxicity.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.