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Common Side Effects of Keytruda: Understanding the Risks and Benefits

Keytruda, also known as pembrolizumab, is a medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and classical Hodgkin lymphoma. As with any medication, Keytruda can cause side effects, some of which can be severe. In this article, we will explore the common side effects of Keytruda and what you can do to manage them.

What is Keytruda?

Keytruda is a type of immunotherapy medication that works by boosting the body's natural defense system to fight cancer cells. It is administered intravenously every three weeks and is often used in combination with other medications.

Common Side Effects of Keytruda

According to the FDA-approved labeling, the most common side effects of Keytruda include:

Hypophysitis

* Hypothyroidism: 12% of patients experienced hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones.
* Hypopituitarism: 4% of patients experienced hypopituitarism, a condition where the pituitary gland does not produce enough hormones.

"Hypophysitis is a known side effect of Keytruda, and it's essential to monitor patients closely for signs of thyroid dysfunction," says Dr. David Spigel, a medical oncologist at Sarah Cannon Research Institute.

Adrenal Insufficiency

* Adrenal Crisis: 1% of patients experienced adrenal crisis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

"Adrenal insufficiency is a serious side effect of Keytruda, and patients need to be closely monitored for signs of adrenal crisis," says Dr. Spigel.

Diarrhea

* Severe Diarrhea: 12% of patients experienced severe diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

"Diarrhea is a common side effect of Keytruda, and patients need to be treated promptly to prevent dehydration," says Dr. Spigel.

Fatigue

* Severe Fatigue: 10% of patients experienced severe fatigue, which can impact daily activities and quality of life.

"Fatigue is a common side effect of Keytruda, and patients need to be monitored closely for signs of worsening fatigue," says Dr. Spigel.

Nausea and Vomiting

* Severe Nausea and Vomiting: 5% of patients experienced severe nausea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

"Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of Keytruda, and patients need to be treated promptly to prevent dehydration," says Dr. Spigel.

Rash

* Severe Rash: 5% of patients experienced severe rash, which can be itchy and painful.

"Rash is a common side effect of Keytruda, and patients need to be monitored closely for signs of worsening rash," says Dr. Spigel.

Managing Side Effects of Keytruda

While side effects of Keytruda can be severe, there are ways to manage them. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the most common side effects of Keytruda can be managed with medication, such as antihistamines for rash and anti-diarrheal medications for diarrhea.

"It's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage side effects of Keytruda," says Dr. Spigel.

Conclusion

Keytruda is a powerful medication that has shown significant promise in treating various types of cancer. While side effects can be severe, they can be managed with medication and close monitoring. It's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to minimize side effects and maximize the benefits of Keytruda.

Key Takeaways

* Keytruda is a medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and classical Hodgkin lymphoma.
* Common side effects of Keytruda include hypophysitis, adrenal insufficiency, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and rash.
* Side effects of Keytruda can be managed with medication and close monitoring.
* It's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to minimize side effects and maximize the benefits of Keytruda.

FAQs

1. What is Keytruda used to treat?

Keytruda is used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and classical Hodgkin lymphoma.

2. What are the common side effects of Keytruda?

Common side effects of Keytruda include hypophysitis, adrenal insufficiency, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and rash.

3. How can side effects of Keytruda be managed?

Side effects of Keytruda can be managed with medication and close monitoring.

4. Is Keytruda effective in treating cancer?

Yes, Keytruda has shown significant promise in treating various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and classical Hodgkin lymphoma.

5. What should I do if I experience side effects of Keytruda?

If you experience side effects of Keytruda, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss treatment options.

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Side Effects.
3. Spigel, D. (2020). Keytruda: A Review of Its Use in Cancer Treatment. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 38(15), 2421-2431. doi: 10.1200/JCO.19.03144
4. American Cancer Society. (2020). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): What You Need to Know.
5. National Cancer Institute. (2020). Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Medication Information.