Pemetrexed is used with another chemotherapy (anti-cancer) medication to treat malignant pleural mesothelioma (a type of cancer that affects the inside lining of the chest cavity). Pemetrexed is also used to treat non-small cell lung cancer. Pemetrexed is in a class of medications called antifolate antineoplastic agents. It works by blocking the action of a certain substance in the body that may help cancer cells multiply.
Pemetrexed comes as a solution (liquid) to be injected into a vein. Pemetrexed is administered by a doctor or nurse in a medical office or infusion center. It is usually given once every 21 days.
Your doctor will probably tell you to take other medications, such as folic acid (a vitamin), vitamin B12, and a corticosteroid such as dexamethasone (Decadron) to decrease some of the side effects of this medication. Your doctor will give you directions for taking these medications. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. If you miss a dose of one of these medications, call your doctor.
Your doctor will ask you to have regular blood tests before and during treatment with pemetrexed. Your doctor may change your dose of pemetrexed or delay treatment based on the results of the blood tests.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
If you miss an appointment to receive a dose of pemetrexed, call your doctor as soon as possible.
nausea
vomiting
constipation
loss of appetite
weight loss
tiredness
weakness
pale skin
headache
dizziness
confusion
fast heartbeat
difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
changes in mood
depression
joint or muscle pain
diarrhea
sores and/or redness in the mouth or throat or on the lips
unusual bleeding or bruising
sore throat, fever, chills, cough or other signs of infection
chest pain
difficulty breathing or swallowing
slow or difficult speech
dizziness or faintness
weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet
hives
rash
itching
decreased urination
Pemetrexed may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
rash
sores and/or redness in the mouth or throat or on the lips
unusual bleeding or bruising
sore throat, fever, chills, cough or other signs of infection
extreme tiredness
weakness
pale skin
headache
dizziness
confusion
fast heartbeat
difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your body's response to pemetrexed.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Reviewed - 09/01/2010
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.