What is this medication for?
Pemetrexed belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medications known as antineoplastics (anticancer), and specifically to the group of antineoplastics known as antifolates. Pemetrexed interferes with the processes that are necessary for cell growth and replication. Pemetrexed is used in combination with the other antineoplastic medications for the treatment of cancer of the lining of the chest cavity, known as pleural mesothelioma, and for the treatment of lung cancer.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Pemetrexed is usually slowly infused (injected) into a vein. The adminstration of this medication often lasts about 10 minutes. You will receive this medication once every 21 days (3 weeks). Because it is usually administered in combination with another antineoplastic medication, the entire process may take up to 3 hours.
Pemetrexed is always given under the supervision of a doctor. Very careful handling of this medication is required. It is always administered in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation.
As well as interfering with replication of cancer cells, pemetrexed can interfere with some of your normal cells. This can cause a number of side effects such as hair loss and mouth sores. Pemetrexed often causes mild nausea and vomiting, but it is important to continue your treatments. Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can advise you on how to reduce the effects of nausea and vomiting.
Before your dose of pemetrexed, you will be given some medication to reduce the symptoms of side effects. To reduce your chances of getting skin reactions from pemetrexed, your doctor will recommend a corticosteroid to take a day before your treatment. To lower your chances of side effects, you must take folic acid and vitamin B12 before and during your treatment with pemetrexed.
Keep track of any side effects and report them to your doctor as suggested in the section, "What side effects are possible with this medication?"
If you miss a pemetrexed treatment, contact your doctor immediately for further instructions on folic acid and vitamin B12 supplementation.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications.
