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Pemetrexed ( pem-eh-TREKS-ed ) (Alimta®) How does this medicine work? Pemetrexed is used to treat many types of solid tumors because it can slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.
• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness (depression) • Rash or skin irritation • Decrease in amount of urine, which could indicate a kidney problem • Increase in blood pressure, which could indicate a kidney problem • Swelling of arms, legs, hands, or feet (peripheral edema), which could indicate a kidney problem • Difficulty in getting pregnant or fathering a child (infertility; usually a late effect) Special Instructions: • Patients usually need extra folic acid (folate or vitamin B-9) and vitamin B12 (cobalamin) to decrease some side effects. • Blood tests will be done to check blood cell counts. • It is important to have a bowel movement at least every other day. A stool softener or laxative may be needed to prevent constipation. Increasing fiber and fluids also can help prevent constipation. • Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given?
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are the common side effects? • Low white blood cell count (neutropenia) • Low red blood cell count (low hemoglobin, anemia) • Feeling tired (fatigue, malaise) • Nausea or vomiting • Constipation (hard stools) • Poor appetite (anorexia) • Shortness of breath (dyspnea) • Chest pain • Diarrhea (loose stools) What are the less common side effects? • Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), which can increase the risk of bleeding • Fever • Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, generalized aches and pains, headache, or poor appetite) • Mouth sores (mucositis) • Sore throat or pain while swallowing due to inflammation of the back of throat (pharyngitis) • Numbness or tingling sensation in hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy)
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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