How it works:
Pemetrexed is an antimetabolite that inhibits enzymes involved in the folate pathway essential for DNA and RNA synthesis in cancer cells. It halts tumour growth and proliferation. The drug shows high efficacy in combination with cisplatin and as maintenance therapy.
Recommended for:
Patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Individuals with malignant pleural mesothelioma
Those receiving platinum-based chemotherapy
Patients requiring maintenance treatment post initial response
Treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma in combination with cisplatin
First-line or subsequent treatment of locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC
Maintenance therapy in NSCLC after initial response
Second-line therapy in cases of disease progression post-chemotherapy
PEMNAT is administered intravenously under hospital supervision. It is given in chemotherapy cycles, typically every 21 days. Dosage is calculated based on body surface area and clinical evaluation. Patients often require folic acid, vitamin B12 and corticosteroids to reduce side effects.
Hypersensitivity to pemetrexed or excipients
Severe renal impairment (CrCl < 45 ml/min)
Pregnancy and lactation
Paediatric use
Severe bone marrow suppression
Myelosuppression: low white blood cells, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
Fatigue, weakness
Elevated liver enzymes
Infections, fever
Rash, pruritus, dermatitis
Mucositis, mouth ulcers
Hair loss (alopecia)
