Alimta 500mg Injection

About

Alimta 500mg Injection, containing the active ingredient Pemetrexed, is an antineoplastic agent classified as a folate antimetabolite. It exerts its cytotoxic effects by disrupting several folate-dependent metabolic pathways essential for cell replication and survival. Specifically, Pemetrexed inhibits multiple enzymes involved in purine and pyrimidine synthesis, including thymidylate synthase, dihydrofolate reductase, and glycinamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase. This multi-targeted inhibition leads to the depletion of nucleotide precursors, thereby preventing DNA synthesis and repair, and ultimately inducing apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells. Administered intravenously, Alimta is a cornerstone in the treatment of specific types of cancer, notably non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and malignant pleural mesothelioma. Its efficacy is often enhanced when combined with other chemotherapeutic agents or as maintenance therapy. Due to its potent mechanism, careful monitoring for hematological and other systemic toxicities is crucial during the treatment course to manage side effects and optimize patient outcomes.

Uses

• Treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
• Management of malignant pleural mesothelioma.
• Maintenance therapy for advanced NSCLC.
• Used in combination with other chemotherapy agents.

Directions For Use

Administer intravenously as an infusion by a qualified healthcare professional. Pre-medication with folic acid and vitamin B12 is required.

Benefits

• Effective against specific types of lung cancer.
• Improves survival rates in mesothelioma patients.
• Can be used as first-line or maintenance therapy.
• Targets multiple pathways essential for cancer growth.
• Available in a precise injectable formulation.
• Often used in combination for enhanced efficacy.

Side Effects

• Myelosuppression (low blood counts)
• Fatigue and asthenia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rash and skin reactions
• Mucositis (oral sores)
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Anorexia (loss of appetite)
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Renal dysfunction
• Infection risk
• Alopecia (hair thinning)
• Elevated liver enzymes

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment as it may exacerbate side effects and potentially interact with the medication.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated due to severe fetal harm risk. Effective contraception is mandatory for both male and female patients during and after treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Contraindicated. The drug is excreted in breast milk and can cause serious adverse effects in the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with liver impairment; monitor liver function tests closely and adjust dose if necessary.
• Kidney - Dose adjustments are required in patients with moderate to severe kidney impairment; monitor renal function before and during treatment.
• Lung - Rare instances of interstitial lung disease or pneumonitis have been reported; monitor for new or worsening respiratory symptoms.

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