Introduction: It is a chemotherapy medication introduced in the treatment of patients with pleural mesothelioma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
What is Pemetrexed?
Pemetrexed specifically is an antifolate antineoplastic agent. In the month of February, 2004, the USFDA approved pemetrexed for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma, a type of tumor of the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue that covers multiple internal organs, together with cisplatin for patients whose disease is either unresectable or who are not otherwise recipients for the curative surgery. In the month of September, 2008, the FDA granted approval as a first-line treatment option, along with cisplatin, against locally advanced and metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients with non-squamous histology.
Pemetrexed is also prescribed along with the carboplatin and pembrolizumab as a first-line treatment option for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Although, the relative efficacy or toxicity of pemetrexed-cisplatin vs pemetrexed-carboplatin has not been specified beyond what is generally thought about cisplatin or carboplatin doublet therapy.
How to Take Pemetrexed?
Pemetrexed should be used exactly as directed/prescribed by your healthcare practitioner. Avoid using in larger or smaller quantities or for a longer period of time than recommended.
The standard dose of pemetrexed should be administered as an infusion into a vein. This medication is usually administered every three weeks. Your healthcare provider will specify how many treatment cycles you need to take.
It is recommended that the patients should take the folic acid and vitamin B12 supplement even if levels are normal when they are taking treatment with pemetrexed therapy. It is also advised for patients to be on a glucocorticoid (e.g. dexamethasone) on the day before, day of, and day after the infusion of pemetrexed in order to avoid skin rashes.
Price & Storage: The pemetrexed price in India is quite reasonable and it is available at every ISO and WHO-GDP certified wholesaler/pharmacy. The price of pemetrexed injection usually may vary depending on the non-branded and branded drugs. Store between 20°C - 25°C (68°F -77°F); Excursions permitted from 15°C - 30°C (59°F - 86°F).
Research: The Phase-III study demonstrated advantages of maintenance use of pemetrexed for the treatment of non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer. Activity has been shown in the malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. Trials are currently testing it against chordoma, esophageal cancer and other cancers.
Note: The piece of information provided about "What are the medical uses of Pemetrexed" in this article is just for informational purposes and is not served as a substitute for the medical treatment, consultation, diagnosis, of a qualified healthcare professional.