Keytruda is a medicine that is indicated for the treatment of skin cancer, also known as melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, bladder cancer and stomach cancer in people whose cancer has spread or that cannot be removed by surgery.
This medicine has in its composition pembrolizumab, which helps the immune system to fight against cancer and lead to a decrease in tumor growth.
Keytruda is not available for sale to the public, as it is a medicine that can only be used in the hospital.
What is it for
The drug Pembrolizumab is indicated for the treatment of:
- Skin cancer, also known as melanoma; Non-small cell lung cancer, in advanced or metastatic stage, Advanced bladder cancer; Stomach cancer.
Keytruda is usually received by people whose cancer has spread or cannot be removed by surgery.
How to take
The amounts of Keytruda to be used and the duration of treatment depend on the state of the cancer and the individual response of each patient to treatment, and should be indicated by the doctor.
Generally, the recommended dose is 200 mg for urothelial cancer, gastric cancer and untreated small cell lung cancer or 2mg / kg for melanoma or non-small cell lung cancer with prior treatment.
This is a medicine that should only be administered intravenously, for about 30 minutes by a doctor, nurse or trained health professional, and the treatment should be repeated every 3 weeks.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that can occur during treatment with Keytruda are diarrhea, nausea, itching, redness of the skin, joint pain and feeling tired.
In addition, there may also be a reduction in red blood cells, thyroid disorders, hot flushes, decreased appetite, headache, dizziness, changes in taste, inflammation in the lungs, shortness of breath, cough, inflammation in the intestines, dry mouth, headache. stomach, constipation, vomiting, pain in muscles, bones and joints, swelling, tiredness, weakness, chills, flu, increased enzymes in the liver and blood and reactions at the injection site.
Who should not use
Keytruda should not be used in people who are allergic to any of the components of the formula, as well as in pregnant women or women who are breast-feeding.
