Pemetrexed
Generic name: pemetrexed [ pem-e-TREX-ed ]
Brand names: Alimta, Pemfexy
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (100 mg; 500 mg)
Drug class:Antimetabolites
What is pemetrexed?
Pemetrexed is used to treat non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer, or malignant pleural mesothelioma (a form of lung cancer associated with exposure to asbestos).
Pemetrexed is sometimes used in combination with other cancer medicines.
Pemetrexed may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with pemetrexed if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease; or
radiation treatment.
Pemetrexed can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects if the mother or the father is using pemetrexed.
If you are a woman, do not use pemetrexed if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 6 months after your last dose.
If you are a man, use effective birth control if your sex partner is able to get pregnant. Keep using birth control for at least 3 months after your last dose.
Tell your doctor right away if a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using pemetrexed.
This medicine may affect fertility (ability to have children) in men. However, it is important to use birth control to prevent pregnancy because pemetrexed can harm an unborn baby.
You should not breastfeed while you are using pemetrexed, and for at least 1 week after your last dose.
How is pemetrexed given?
Pemetrexed is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Pemetrexed is usually given every 3 weeks. Your doctor will determine how many treatment cycles you should receive.
To prevent certain side effects of pemetrexed, you will need to take folic acid supplements and receive vitamin B12 injections (starting 7 days before your first dose of pemetrexed). Take only the amount of folic acid that your doctor has prescribed.
Your doctor may also prescribe steroid medication to reduce certain side effects of pemetrexed. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully....
