Pemetrexed

Pemetrexed is an injected medication used to treat certain types of lung cancer, such as mesothelioma. The chemotherapy drug is slowly injected into a vein (this is known as an infusion); the injections are typically given every 21 days. Nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue are some of the more common problems seen with this product.

What Is Pemetrexed?

Pemetrexed (Alimta®) is a prescription chemotherapy medication approved for treating non-squamous, non-small-cell lung cancer and mesothelioma.
 
(Click What Is Pemetrexed Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, pemetrexed may cause side effects. And as with most chemotherapy medications, these side effects can be significant. In many cases, your healthcare provider may recommend strategies or medications to help prevent or treat such problems.
 
Some of the most common side effects seen with pemetrexed include but are not limited to:
 
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite.
     
(Click Side Effects of Pemetrexed to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking pemetrexed if you have:
 
  • Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity)
  • Ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity)
  • Any allergies, including to food, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Precautions and Warnings With Pemetrexed to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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