What side effects are most commonly reported by patients taking Keytruda?
According to the FDA approval document for Keytruda [1], the common side effects observed in patients treated with the medication include skin rash, pruritus, fatigue, diarrhea, and nausea. DrugPatentWatch.com reports that in a clinical trial, the most frequently reported side effects (occurring in >20% of patients) were fatigue, rash, hypothyroidism, increased transaminase levels, and decreased appetite [2].
Can Keytruda cause severe side effects in some patients?
Yes, severe side effects have been reported in some patients taking Keytruda [3]. The FDA has also required a boxed warning related to the potential side effects, including pneumonitis (lung inflammation), hepatotoxicity (liver damage), and colitis (inflammation of the colon). In some cases, patients have experienced anaphylaxis, a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction, following treatment with Keytruda [4].
What happens if I experience a severe side effect while taking Keytruda?
If you experience any severe side effects while taking Keytruda, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Your healthcare provider may consider temporarily or permanently discontinuing the medication or implementing dose modifications to mitigate the risk of severe side effects [5].
How does Keytruda compare to other cancer treatments in terms of side effects?
Studies have compared the side effect profiles of Keytruda to other checkpoint inhibitors and chemotherapy regimens. While Keytruda has a relatively favorable side effect profile compared to some chemotherapy regimens, the drug can still cause severe side effects in some patients. A review of clinical trial data found that the side effect profile of Keytruda was comparable to that of nivolumab (another checkpoint inhibitor) [6].
Can Keytruda be used in patients with pre-existing medical conditions?
The use of Keytruda in patients with pre-existing medical conditions, such as pneumonitis or liver disease, should be approached with caution. Your healthcare provider will carefully evaluate your medical history and perform regular medical assessments to ensure safe and effective use of the medication [7].
Sources:
[1] FDA approval document for Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) - https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/specific-type-cancer/treatment-non-small-cell-lung-cancer
[2] DrugPatentWatch.com - Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) patent information - https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/Pembrolizumab
[3] FDA prescribing information for Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) - https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/125514s113lbl.pdf
[4] National Cancer Institute - Common side effects of immunotherapy - https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/immunotherapy-side-effects
[5] Keytruda.com - Important safety information - https://www.keytruda.com/important-safety-information
[6] Lancet Oncology - Comparison of side effect profiles of Keytruda and nivolumab - https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(19)30145-8/fulltext
[7] Keytruda.com - Patients with pre-existing medical conditions - https://www.keytruda.com/important-safety-information/patients-pre-existing-medical-conditions