Keytruda Injection

Keytruda Injection (IMPORTED) contains pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor used in cancer therapy. Pembrolizumab works by blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, enabling the immune system to detect and destroy cancer cells more effectively.

Uses:

1. Treatment of Advanced or Metastatic Cancers: Including but not limited to melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and certain types of urothelial and gastric cancer.
2. Approved for Various Tumor Types with High Microsatellite Instability (MSI-H) or Tumor Mutational Burden (TMB-H).
3. Adjuvant Therapy in resected melanoma to reduce recurrence risks.

How Keytruda Works: Pembrolizumab binds to the PD-1 receptor on T-cells, preventing cancer cells from evading immune attack. This restores the immune response against tumors, enhancing the body’s ability to fight cancer cells.

Common Side Effects:

• Fatigue
• Skin rash or itching
• Diarrhea or nausea
• Joint pain
• Loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Attention):

• Immune-related reactions: Inflammation of organs like the lungs (pneumonitis), liver (hepatitis), or intestines (colitis).
• Severe infusion-related reactions
• Hormonal changes: Thyroid or adrenal gland problems.

Key Features:

• Contains pembrolizumab, a PD-1 inhibitor enhancing immune-mediated cancer control.
• Indicated for multiple cancer types, with potential to reduce tumor growth.
• Administered intravenously under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
• Effective in cancers with specific biomarkers like high microsatellite instability.

Precautions:

• Pregnancy Safety: Not recommended during pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during and for a period after treatment.
• Immune Monitoring: Regular monitoring of immune function is essential due to potential immune-related side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. What is Keytruda Injection used for?
   Keytruda is used for the treatment of various advanced or metastatic cancers by boosting the immune system’s ability to detect and attack cancer cells.
2. How is Keytruda administered?
   It is given as an intravenous infusion, typically every 3 or 6 weeks, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
3. What precautions should be taken during Keytruda treatment?
   Regular monitoring of immune response and organ function is necessary. Pregnant women and individuals with autoimmune conditions should discuss their options with their doctor.

References:

1. FDA Keytruda Information
   Available from: https://www.drugs.com/keytruda.html
2. Merck & Co., Inc. – Keytruda Prescribing Information
   Available from: https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/k/keytruda/keytruda_pi.pdf