Pemetrexed: how to take it safely
Alimta
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats some types of lung cancer and mesothelioma.
How to take it
It is given by a cancer nurse or doctor, by drip into a vein. Your blood tests are checked before each cycle.
When to take it
Given by drip into a vein by a cancer nurse or doctor, as your specialist plans.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Missing the folic acid and vitamin B12 your team told you to take, which start before the first dose.
- Anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen around the treatment days unless your team approves.
- Tell your team if you have kidney problems.
- Pregnancy and fathering a child during treatment. Use reliable contraception and ask your team how long to continue it.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Tiredness, nausea, mouth sores, rash, low blood counts, diarrhoea.
Get help if
Fever, signs of infection, breathlessness, severe rash, unusual bleeding or very little urine: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.