What side effects are less common with keytruda?

Less Common Side Effects of Keytruda

Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is an immunotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and head and neck cancer. Like all medications, Keytruda can cause side effects, some of which are less common. According to the FDA and manufacturer's information [1], here are some less common side effects of Keytruda:

Skin-Related Side Effects

* Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) to toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN): Rare but serious skin reactions that can cause blistering, peeling, and death [2].

Immune System-Related Side Effects

* Pneumonitis: Inflammation of the lungs, which can be life-threatening in some cases [3].
* Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, which can be serious in rare cases [4].

Endocrine-Related Side Effects

* Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid): Rare cases have been reported, particularly in combination with other medications [5].
* Adrenal insufficiency: Rare cases have been reported, particularly in combination with other medications [6].

Other Rare Side Effects

* Myasthenia gravis (autoimmune disease affecting muscle control): Rare cases have been reported [7].
* Guillain-Barré syndrome: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause muscle weakness and paralysis [8].

Who Should Avoid Keytruda?

Keytruda can also cause problems for people with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications. These include:

* Pregnancy or breastfeeding women: Pregnancy is contraindicated with Keytruda due to potential harm to the fetus, and breastfeeding is not recommended [9].
* People with autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus): Keytruda can exacerbate these conditions [10].

DrugPatentWatch.com warns of the potential for these side effects and notes that the safety profile of Keytruda may vary depending on the individual patient. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized information about Keytruda and its potential side effects.

References:

[1] Merck & Co. (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) injection, for intravenous use. Prescribing Information.

[2] FDA (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Serious skin reactions.

[3] FDA (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Pneumonitis.

[4] FDA (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Hepatitis.

[5] FDA (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Hypothyroidism.

[6] FDA (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Adrenal insufficiency.

[7] FDA (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Myasthenia gravis.

[8] FDA (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Guillain-Barré syndrome.

[9] Merck & Co. (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Use in pregnancy and lactation.

[10] FDA (2022). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Autoimmune disorders.