Keytruda, a drug manufactured by Merck & Co., was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cancer care in 2014. The drug, which is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) blocking antibody, was initially approved for the treatment of advanced melanoma in patients who had already received prior therapy [1].
Since its initial approval, Keytruda has received additional FDA approvals for the treatment of various types of cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, classical Hodgkin lymphoma, urothelial carcinoma, and microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) cancer [1].
It is important to note that while Keytruda has been a significant development in cancer treatment, it is not without potential side effects. Common side effects of Keytruda include fatigue, cough, decreased appetite, and rash [2]. Additionally, Keytruda can cause serious side effects such as immune-mediated pneumonitis, colitis, hepatitis, endocrinopathies, and nephritis [2].
In terms of cost, Keytruda can be expensive. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the cost of Keytruda can range from $12,587 to $15,053 per month, depending on the dosage and treatment regimen [3]. However, it is important to note that the cost of Keytruda may vary depending on a patient's insurance coverage and other factors.
In summary, Keytruda was approved by the FDA for cancer care in 2014 and has since received additional approvals for the treatment of various types of cancers. While Keytruda has been a significant development in cancer treatment, it is not without potential side effects and can be expensive.
Sources:
1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Keytruda (pembrolizumab). <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/keytruda-pembrolizumab>.
2. Merck & Co., Inc. (2021). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Prescribing Information. <https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/k/keytruda/keytruda_pi.pdf>.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2021). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Pricing & Cost Analysis. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/keytruda>.