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Pembrolizumab

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Anti-PD-1 Monoclonal Antibody Keytruda® Cancer-related

Pembrolizumab - What is it for

Pembrolizumab belongs to a class of medications known as immunotherapy. It works with your body's immune system to fight against the tumour cells.  

Pembrolizumab - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Pembrolizumab cause?

During infusion

  • Allergic reactions uncommonly develop during the first infusion. Symptoms may include chills, rigors, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, flushing or itch.
    Alert your nurse if you experience any of the above during the infusion.

Other possible side effects (usually mild, may occur within a few weeks after 1st dose)

  • Mild itch, rashes that resolve within a few days
  • Diarrhea associated with abdominal cramping
  • Muscle ache, fatigue

Please seek medical attention if any of the following occurs:

  • Signs of skin toxicity e.g. swelling, extensive peeling of skin, severe rashes etc.
  • Signs of liver/ gastrointestinal toxicity e.g. severe diarrhea, dark coloured urine, intense abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or whites of eyes
  • Persistent shortness of breath or dry cough 
  • Extreme fatigue, abnormal intolerance of cold or heat, feeling irritable
  • Unusual headache

Before taking Pembrolizumab , what precautions must I follow?

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Pembrolizumab ?

Pembrolizumab - Dosage and How to Use

How should Pembrolizumab be used?

What should I do if I miss a dose?

What should I do if I overdose?

Pembrolizumab - Handling

How should I handle Pembrolizumab safely?

Pembrolizumab - Storage

How should I store Pembrolizumab ?

How should I dispose of Pembrolizumab safely?

Pembrolizumab - Additional Information

  • Updated on 8/10/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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