Generic name:pemetrexed [ pem-e-TREX-ed ]
Drug class:Antimetabolites
What is Alimta?
Alimta is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.
Alimta is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer, or malignant pleural mesothelioma (a form of lung cancer associated with exposure to asbestos).
Alimta is sometimes used in combination with other cancer medicines.
Warnings
Do not use Alimta if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby.
Before you receive Alimta, tell your doctor you have kidney or liver disease, bone marrow suppression, a weak immune system, or excess fluid in the space around your lung, liver, or other internal organs.
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Naprelan, Treximet), celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Arthrotec, Cambia, Cataflam, Voltaren, Flector Patch, Pennsaid, Solareze), indomethacin (Indocin), meloxicam (Mobic), and others.
To prevent certain side effects of Alimta, you will need to take folic acid supplements and receive vitamin B12 injections (starting 7 days before your first dose of Alimta). Take only the amount of folic acid that your doctor has prescribed.
Alimta can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. Your blood will need to be tested often. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests. Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding injury. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.
Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect while using Ali...
