Pemetrexed Disodium

• Pemetrexed Disodium is an antifolate chemotherapy drug that inhibits cancer cell growth.
• It is primarily used for certain types of non-small cell lung cancer and mesothelioma.
• The drug works by disrupting DNA synthesis and repair in rapidly dividing cells.
• Dosage is carefully determined by a medical professional based on the patient’s condition and other factors.
• Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, and myelosuppression, requiring careful monitoring.

What is Pemetrexed Disodium and How It Works?

Pemetrexed Disodium is an antifolate antineoplastic agent, a type of chemotherapy drug. It works by targeting several enzymes involved in folate metabolism, which are crucial for DNA synthesis and repair in rapidly dividing cells. By inhibiting these enzymes, Pemetrexed Disodium disrupts the production of genetic material (DNA and RNA) and proteins essential for cell growth and replication, particularly in cancer cells.

This mechanism of action makes it effective against various malignancies where uncontrolled cell proliferation is a hallmark. Specifically, Pemetrexed Disodium acts as a multitargeted antifolate, meaning it interferes with multiple pathways that cancer cells rely on for survival and division. This comprehensive approach helps to prevent cancer cells from growing and spreading throughout the body.

Pemetrexed Disodium Uses and Dosage Information

Pemetrexed Disodium is primarily indicated for the treatment of specific types of cancer. Its efficacy has been established in:

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): It is used alone or in combination with other chemotherapy agents for advanced or metastatic NSCLC, particularly for non-squamous histology.
• Malignant pleural mesothelioma: It is often used in combination with cisplatin for patients with unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma who have not received prior chemotherapy.

The specific Pemetrexed Disodium dosage information is highly individualized and determined by an oncologist based on several factors, including the patient’s body surface area, kidney function, the specific type and stage of cancer being treated, and overall health. It is typically administered intravenously over a period of 10 minutes, usually once every 21 days. Patients often receive folic acid and vitamin B12 supplementation before and during treatment to reduce certain side effects.

Pemetrexed Disodium Side Effects

Like most chemotherapy drugs, Pemetrexed Disodium side effects can range from mild to severe. These effects occur because the drug can also affect healthy, rapidly dividing cells in the body, not just cancer cells. Common side effects often include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Hair thinning
• Low blood cell counts (myelosuppression), which can lead to anemia, increased risk of infection (neutropenia), and bleeding/bruising (thrombocytopenia)

More serious, though less common, side effects can include severe skin reactions, kidney problems, and lung inflammation. Patients receiving Pemetrexed Disodium are closely monitored by their healthcare team for any adverse reactions, and supportive care is provided to manage these effects. It is crucial for patients to report any new or worsening symptoms to their doctor promptly.