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Introduction to Pemgem 500mg Injection
The injection Pemgem 500mg is a cancer-fighting medication that includes the active component Pemetrexed. Classified as an antifolate agent, it is employed in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma, which are cancers affecting the lungs and chest. This medication can be administered either as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other anticancer drugs like cisplatin. To mitigate potential side effects, your physician may recommend the use of corticosteroids, folic acid, and vitamin B12.
Blood tests will be taken before each infusion to determine whether your kidney and liver functions are adequate and whether you have enough blood cells to receive this medicine. Before starting treatment with Pemgem 500mg injection, it is very important to tell your physician if you currently or previously had any medical conditions of kidney problems, heart disorders, or fluid accumulation in the lungs. Report to your doctor if you recently had or currently having radiotherapy or any vaccination before taking this medication.
Notify your doctor promptly if you are considering pregnancy or suspect that you might be pregnant. Employ reliable contraception throughout the course of treatment and for a minimum of six months following the final administration of the Pemgem 500mg injection. For men, it is advisable to refrain from fathering a child during the treatment period and up to three months afterward. Consult your doctor for guidance on fertility-related matters. This medication is not suitable for individuals under the age of 18, including adolescents and children.
Uses of Pemgem 500mg Injection
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma
- Non-small cell lung carcinoma
Therapeutic Effects of Pemgem 500mg Injection
Pemgem 500mg hinders the process of cell division and replication by obstructing particular enzymes crucial for folate metabolism (essential for cell replication) and DNA synthesis. This impediment prevents the growth and multiplication of cancer cells.
Interaction of Pemgem 500mg Injection with other drugs
Notify your healthcare provider about all your medications, encompassing prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medicines, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Some medications may interact with Pemgem 500mg, potentially diminishing its effectiveness and leading to undesired side effects.
More Information about Pemgem 500mg Injection
- Keep the tablets away from light and moisture.
- Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C.
- Keep the tablets out of the reach of children and animals.
How to consume Pemgem 500mg Injection
The administration of Pemgem 500mg injection involves intravenous infusion into the vein. If this injection is prescribed for you, a healthcare professional will be responsible for its administration. It is crucial not to self-administer. The dosage and frequency of administration will be determined by your physician, tailored to your specific medical condition, as it varies for each individual.
Safety Advices for Pemgem 500mg Injection
Pregnancy
Refrain from taking Pemgem 500mg if you are pregnant, as it may pose risks to the developing baby. Prior to initiating the treatment, consult with your doctor for guidance.
Breast Feeding
Breastfeeding is not advisable during the course of Pemgem 500mg, as it may lead to toxicity in the infant. If you are currently breastfeeding, it is essential to discontinue it. Consult your physician for further guidance and advice.
Lungs
If you encounter symptoms such as shortness of breath, blockage, or inflammation in the lung lining while using Pemgem 500mg, consult with your doctor promptly.
Liver
Before initiating Pemgem 500mg, inform your doctor about any pre-existing liver disorders, as caution is advised when using this medication in patients with liver disease.
Alcohol
The safety of consuming alcohol while undergoing Pemgem 500mg injection is uncertain. It is recommended to discuss this matter with your physician for guidance.
Driving
Engaging in activities such as driving or operating machinery is not recommended while using Pemgem 500mg, as it may induce symptoms like nausea, fatigue, vomiting, etc. Consult your doctor for additional information.
Side Effects of Pemgem 500mg Injection
Side effects refer to undesirable symptoms induced by medications. While all medications have the potential to cause side effects, it’s important to note that not everyone will experience them.
Serious:
- Blood infection
- Severe allergic reaction
- Breathlessness, intense chest pain or cough with bloody sputum
- Reduced neutrophil granulocytes (white blood cells)
- Kidney failure
- Pharyngitis (a sore throat)
- Abnormal liver function
Common:
- Fatigue
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Redness, swelling or sores in the mouth
- Loss of appetite, sensation
- Reduced hemoglobin level
- Increased skin pigmentation
- Watery and inflamed eyes, taste change
- Fever
- Muscle weakness
- Dehydration
- Constipation
- Skin rash
- Hair loss
Word of Advice
Discuss your fertility concerns with your doctor, particularly for men who are advised to refrain from fathering a child during and up to three months after treatment. Seek advice on fertility-related matters and avoid planning for pregnancy. If you experience any symptoms listed as side effects, consult your doctor promptly. Inform your doctor immediately if you have undergone radiotherapy, received vaccines, or taken other medications before starting Pemgem 500mg, as these factors may impact the medicine’s effectiveness and lead to side effects. Additionally, disclose any history of heart disease, kidney problems, or liver problems to your doctor.
FAQs
Q 1. What should I tell my doctor before starting Pemgem 500mg?
Prior to commencing Pemgem 500mg, it is crucial to inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, particularly kidney or liver problems. Additionally, disclose all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Q 2. .Can children or adults take Pemgem 500mg?
No, Pemgem 500mg is not recommended for children or adults under 18 years. Talk with your doctor for more information.
Q 3. How often do I need to have blood tests while on Pemgem 500mg?
You will need to have regular blood tests while taking Pemgem 500mg to monitor your blood cell counts, blood uric acid level, and kidney function.
Q 4. Can I continue my normal activities while on Pemgem 500mg?
It depends on your circumstances and how you feel. You should discuss your activities and any concerns with your healthcare provider while under the treatment of Pemgem 500mg.
Q 5. How is Pemgem 500mg administered?
A healthcare provider gives Pemgem 500mg as an intravenous (IV) injection. The dose and frequency of the injections will depend on the patient’s condition and other factors.
Q 6. Why do I feel nauseous while taking Pemgem 500mg ?
Nausea is a common side effect of chemotherapy drugs, including Pemgem 500mg . This happens because chemotherapy drugs can affect the lining of the stomach, leading to nausea and vomiting.
Fact Box of Pemgem 500mg Injection
Molecule name: Pemetrexed
Pharmacological class: Antifolate agent
Therapeutic class: Anti-Cancer
Indication:
Non-small cell lung carcinoma
Malignant pleural mesothelioma
References
- KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs,7th edition, 2013, 863.
- Eagle Pharmaceuticals, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on Feb 2020] [ Accessed on 27 – March – 2023],https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/209472s000lbl.pdf
- Seacross Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [ Accessed on 27 – March – 2023],https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.8887.pdf
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