What is Pemfexy?
Pemfexy can be used to treat patients with non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer in cases where cancer has returned or spread. The tumor has recurred or spread after chemotherapy.
Pemfexy is also used for adults suffering from malignant mesothelioma pleural (a type that is a type of lung cancer due to being exposed to asbestos) that is not able to be eliminated via operation or for those who aren't allowed to undergo surgery.Pemfexy can be used in conjunction with other cancer drugs.Pemfexy is also used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline for medication.
Side effects of Pemfexy
Seek medical attention immediately when you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction (hives, breathing difficulties, or swelling of your throat or face) or an extreme skin reaction (fever, burning eyes, sore throat, or skin pain; the skin is red or purple and blisters and peels).
Pemfexy could cause severe adverse effects. Consult your physician right away. If you suffer from:
- Very little or no urine;
- A new or getting worse cough or fever; difficulty breathing;
- Redness, swelling, or the appearance of blisters on skin treated by radiotherapy in the past,
- Low blood cell counts, fever, chills, fatigue, oral and skin sores easily bleeding, unusually pale skin, cold feet, and hands being lightheaded or sluggish
Common adverse reactions to Pemfexy can include:
- Fatigue, feeling short and breathless, coughing
- Mouth sores, swelling, or a sore throat
- Fever, rash;
- Low blood cell count
- Loss of appetite;
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
This is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects, and others could happen. Contact your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Opdivo, Retevmo, Rybrevant, Lumakras, methotrexate, Keytruda, and Avastin
Warnings
Follow the directions on your prescription label and the package. Inform your healthcare professionals about your medical ailments, allergies, and any medications you take.
Before you take this drug
You shouldn't be treated with Pemfexy if you have an allergy to it.
Speak to your doctor if you have ever suffered from:
- Kidney disease kidney disease
- Radiation treatment.
You might need to undergo a pregnancy test that is negative prior to commencing this treatment.
Pemfexy could cause harm to an unborn baby as well as birth defects when the father or mother is taking it.
- If you're female, do not use Pemfexy if you're expecting. Make sure you are using the most effective contraception to avoid the possibility of pregnancy while taking this medication and for a minimum of 6 months after the last dose.
- If you're male, use effective birth control when your partner can get pregnant. Use birth control for a minimum of 3 months following the last dose.
- Inform your doctor immediately. If you become pregnant during the time that both the mother and father are taking Pemfexy,
This medication can alter fertility (the ability to have children) in males. It is nevertheless important to use birth control in order to avoid pregnancy since Pemfexy may harm an unborn baby.
It is not recommended to breastfeed during the time you take Pemfexy or for at least a week following your last dose.
How to take Pemfexy?
Pemfexy is administered as an infusion into the vein. Your healthcare professional will give the injection.Pemfexy is typically administered every three weeks. Your doctor will advise you on how many cycles of treatment you'll need to receive.
To reduce the risk of certain side effects associated with pemetrexed and avoid certain side effects, you'll need to be taking folic acid supplements and getting vitamin B12 injections (starting 7 days prior to your initial doses of pemetrexed). You should only take the amount of vitamin B12 that your physician has prescribed.Your doctor might also recommend the use of steroid medications to minimise certain adverse effects associated with pemetrexed. Follow the doctor's instructions for dosage with care.
Contact your physician if you are suffering from diarrhoea or vomiting or if you're sweating more than normal. You could easily get dehydrated when taking Pemfexy. This could lead to lower blood pressure as well as a significant electrolyte imbalance or kidney failure.
Pemfexy reduces blood cells, which aid your body in fighting off infections and help your blood get clots. Your blood needs to be checked frequently. Your treatment for cancer could be delayed based on the results of these tests.
What happens If I miss a dose?
Contact your doctor for advice. If you do not make an appointment for Pemfexy.
What happens if I overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
If you suffer from kidney issues, avoid taking ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for two days prior to or two days following the treatment with Pemfexy.
Beware of those with illnesses or who suffer from infections. Contact your doctor right away when you begin to show symptoms of an infection.Avoid activities that could increase the chances of sustaining injuries or bleeding. Take extra care to avoid bleeding when shaving or brushing your teeth.
Interaction with other drugs
Pemfexy could cause kidney damage, particularly when you are also taking specific medications for osteoporosis, cancer, infections, rejection of organ transplants, intestinal problems, high blood pressure, or arthritis pain (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve).
Other medications may interact with Pemfexy, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor the medicines you are currently taking and any medications you begin or stop taking.
