Why are some patients experiencing muscle pain?
Muscle pain, also known as myalgia, is a common side effect reported by some patients taking certain medications. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be intermittent or constant. Muscle pain can affect various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, and back.
According to a study published on Medscape, muscle pain is a well-documented side effect of several medications [1]. In some cases, muscle pain may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition or an interaction with other medications.
How common is muscle pain associated with this particular medication?
Unfortunately, the exact prevalence of muscle pain associated with a specific medication is often not well-documented. Some patients may experience muscle pain at a rate as high as 10-20% or more, while others may experience it at a lower rate.
A review on Healio reported that muscle pain is a common complaint among patients taking a class of medications known as PD-1 inhibitors, including Keytruda (pembrolizumab) [2]. While Keytruda is not explicitly mentioned, a similar pattern may apply to other medications within this class.
What should patients do if they experience muscle pain while taking their medication?
If patients experience muscle pain while taking their medication, it is essential to discuss this symptom with their doctor. The doctor can help determine the cause of the muscle pain and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.
The FDA recommends that patients report any new or worsening symptoms, including muscle pain, to their healthcare provider [3].
Can muscle pain be a reason to switch medications?
In some cases, muscle pain may be a reason to switch medications. If the muscle pain is severe or persistent, the healthcare provider may consider alternative medications that have a lower risk of muscle pain.
Ultimately, whether muscle pain is a reason to switch medications depends on several factors, including the severity of the muscle pain, the potential risks and benefits of switching medications, and the patient's overall health status.
Sources:
[1] Medscape - Muscle pain is a common side effect of several medications (2020)
[2] Healio - Common complaints among patients with cancer: A review (2020)
[3] FDA - Reporting side effects (2022 - accessed Dec 2023)