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The Side Effects of Keytruda: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Keytruda?

Keytruda, also known as pembrolizumab, is a medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and classical Hodgkin lymphoma. It is a type of immunotherapy that works by boosting the body's natural defenses to fight cancer cells.

How Does Keytruda Work?

Keytruda is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitor, which means it helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells by blocking the PD-1 receptor on T-cells. This allows the T-cells to recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively.

Common Side Effects of Keytruda

While Keytruda has shown significant promise in treating various types of cancer, it can cause a range of side effects. Some of the most common side effects of Keytruda include:

Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of Keytruda, affecting up to 70% of patients. This can range from mild to severe and can impact daily activities.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another common side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 40% of patients. This can range from mild to severe and can lead to dehydration if left untreated.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are also common side effects of Keytruda, affecting up to 30% of patients. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can be managed with medication.

Rash

Rash is a common side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 20% of patients. This can range from mild to severe and can be itchy or painful.

Itching

Itching is another common side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 15% of patients. This can range from mild to severe and can be managed with medication.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, is a rare but serious side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 10% of patients. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin.

Pneumonitis

Pneumonitis, or inflammation of the lungs, is a rare but serious side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 5% of patients. This can cause symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

Less Common Side Effects of Keytruda

While the above side effects are common, there are also less common side effects of Keytruda that can occur. These include:

Colitis

Colitis, or inflammation of the colon, is a rare but serious side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 2% of patients. This can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver, is a rare but serious side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 1% of patients. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Kidney Failure

Kidney failure is a rare but serious side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 1% of patients. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and decreased urine output.

Managing Side Effects of Keytruda

While side effects of Keytruda can be uncomfortable, they can often be managed with medication and other treatments. It is essential to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider and follow their guidance on managing them.

Conclusion

Keytruda is a powerful medication that has shown significant promise in treating various types of cancer. While it can cause a range of side effects, many of these can be managed with medication and other treatments. It is essential to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider and follow their guidance on managing them.

Key Takeaways

* Keytruda is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitor used to treat various types of cancer.
* Common side effects of Keytruda include fatigue, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, rash, itching, and hypothyroidism.
* Less common side effects of Keytruda include colitis, hepatitis, and kidney failure.
* Side effects of Keytruda can often be managed with medication and other treatments.

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. How does Keytruda work?

Keytruda works by boosting the body's natural defenses to fight cancer cells by blocking the PD-1 receptor on T-cells.

3. What are the common side effects of Keytruda?

Common side effects of Keytruda include fatigue, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, rash, itching, and hypothyroidism.

4. Can side effects of Keytruda be managed?

Yes, side effects of Keytruda can often be managed with medication and other treatments.

5. Is Keytruda a cure for cancer?

Keytruda is not a cure for cancer, but it can help slow the growth of cancer cells and improve symptoms.

Sources

1. Keytruda Prescribing Information. (2022). Retrieved from <https://www.merck.com/product/usa/picirculars/k/keytruda/keytrudapi.pdf>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration/pembrolizumab-keytruda>
3. National Cancer Institute. (2022). Pembrolizumab. Retrieved from <https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/immunotherapy/pembrolizumab>
4. American Cancer Society. (2022). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda). Retrieved from <https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/treatment-types/immunotherapy/pembrolizumab.html>
5. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/pembrolizumab-oral-route/description/drg-20065355>