Keytruda, a medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and others, can cause several side effects, some of which are severe [1]. It is essential to monitor patients closely for potential side effects, as some can be life-threatening.
According to the FDA, Keytruda can cause immune-mediated side effects, including pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs), colitis (inflammation of the colon), and hypophysitis (inflammation of the pituitary gland) [2]. The most common immune-mediated side effects include rash, diarrhea, and fatigue.
Another key side effect to watch for is infusion reactions, which can occur during or after administration of Keytruda. Symptoms of infusion reactions include hives, itching, and difficulty breathing [3]. Rare but serious side effects include Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a severe skin and mucous membrane disorder) and cardiac failure.
Neuropathy, including peripheral neuropathy, is another potential side effect of Keytruda, particularly in patients with lung cancer [4]. This can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet.
Additionally, Keytruda can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and dehydration [5]. It is essential to monitor patients for changes in appetite, weight loss, and other signs of gastrointestinal distress.
Reference:
[1] Keytruda. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/Keytruda
[2] FDA. (2020). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) injection, for intravenous use. Retrieved from https:www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/125514s025lbl.pdf
[3] Keytruda. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/keytruda
[4] Garassino, M. C., et al. (2017). Pembrolizumab in patients with previously treated, advanced NSCLC: results from the KEYNOTE-001 open-label, single-arm, multicenter trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 35(29), 3378-3384.
[5] Keytruda. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.keytruda.com/side-effects
Sources:
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/Keytruda
2. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/125514s025lbl.pdf
3. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/keytruda
4. Garassino, M. C., et al. (2017). Pembrolizumab in patients with previously treated, advanced NSCLC: results from the KEYNOTE-001 open-label, single-arm, multicenter trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 35(29), 3378-3384.
5. https://www.keytruda.com/side-effects