Keytruda (Pembrolizumab)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Keytruda Used For?
Keytruda is a medication that helps the immune system fight cancer. It is used to treat several types of cancer in adults and adolescents.
Primary Uses
Keytruda is used to treat melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, classical Hodgkin lymphoma, primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma, urothelial carcinoma (including bladder cancer), microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) cancers, colon or rectal cancer, biliary tract carcinoma, endometrial carcinoma, cervical cancer, Merkel cell carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma, oesophageal carcinoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, and triple-negative breast cancer.
How It Works
Keytruda works by enhancing the immune response against cancer cells.
Good to know: Keytruda is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Keytruda
Keytruda is administered through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare professional.
Dosage Instructions
Keytruda is typically given every 3 weeks or every 6 weeks, depending on the prescribed dose. The infusion lasts about 30 minutes.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose of Keytruda, contact your doctor immediately to reschedule your appointment.
Important: Do not double the dose if you miss one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- itching
- rash
- joint pain
- back pain
- fatigue
- cough
- skin discoloration
- stomach pain
- fever
- upper respiratory infections
- low sodium levels
- decreased white blood cell count
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- coughing
- severe diarrhea or blood in stools
- severe stomach pain
- nausea or vomiting
- yellowing of skin or eyes
- dark urine
- changes in urine output
- rapid heartbeat
- weight changes
- muscle pain
- confusion or seizures
Impulse Control Issues
There may be risks of impulse control issues, including gambling or spending problems.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before using Keytruda.
Who Should Not Take Keytruda
Keytruda should not be used by individuals with certain autoimmune diseases, organ transplant recipients, or those with severe lung issues.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of autoimmune diseases, organ transplants, pneumonia, liver damage, or other serious health conditions with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Keytruda can harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for at least 4 months after the last dose. Do not breastfeed while taking Keytruda.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Keytruda and affect its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: No specific grapefruit interaction mentioned.
- Steroids (e.g., prednisone)
- Other immunosuppressants
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Keytruda.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol use while taking Keytruda.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Fatigue has been reported; be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Keytruda affects you.
Storage
Keytruda is usually stored in a pharmacy or hospital setting and is unlikely to be stored by patients.
Overdose Information
In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Keytruda to show effects can vary based on the individual and the type of cancer being treated.
Keytruda is administered via IV and does not have dietary restrictions.
No, Keytruda is not considered an addictive medication.
Consult your doctor before stopping Keytruda, as it may affect your treatment plan.
Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor while on Keytruda.
Weight changes can occur; discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor immediately to reschedule.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.