What is the recommended dosage for keytruda?

Standard Dosage for Keytruda

Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is administered as an intravenous infusion. The recommended dose for adults is 200 mg every 3 weeks or 400 mg every 6 weeks.[1] Each infusion lasts 30 minutes.

Dosage by Indication

Dosing varies slightly by cancer type:
- For most solid tumors, endometrial carcinoma, or MSI-H/dMMR cancers: 200 mg every 3 weeks or 400 mg every 6 weeks.
- For classical Hodgkin lymphoma: 200 mg every 3 weeks.
- For certain pediatric patients (age 2+ with specific cancers): 2 mg/kg every 3 weeks (max 200 mg).[1]

Treatment continues until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months for some neoadjuvant/adjuvant uses.

Dosage Adjustments

Reduce to 100 mg every 3 weeks or 200 mg every 6 weeks if grade 2 immune-related toxicity occurs. Withhold for grade 3 toxicity; permanently discontinue for grade 4 or recurrent severe events. Adjust for renal or hepatic impairment only if toxicity arises—no routine changes needed.[1]

How It's Given and Monitored

Infuse over 30 minutes through an IV line. Premedicate with acetaminophen and an antihistamine for first doses to reduce infusion reactions. Monitor for immune-related side effects like pneumonitis or colitis, which may require steroids.[1]

Pediatric and Special Populations

Children under 2 years: Safety not established. For obesity or low body weight, fixed dosing (200/400 mg) applies regardless of BSA.[1]

[1]: Keytruda Prescribing Information (Merck)