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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, non-small cell lung cancer, and classical Hodgkin lymphoma. It is a type of immunotherapy, which works by boosting the body's natural defense system to fight cancer cells.

How Does Keytruda Work?

Keytruda is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitor, which means it blocks the action of PD-1, a protein that can help cancer cells evade the immune system. By blocking PD-1, Keytruda allows the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.

Common Side Effects of Keytruda

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

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, is a common side effect of Keytruda. According to the FDA, up to 20% of patients treated with Keytruda may experience hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and hair loss.

Fatigue

Fatigue is another common side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 15% of patients. Fatigue can range from mild to severe and can impact daily activities.

Rash

Rashes are a common side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 10% of patients. Rashes can range from mild to severe and may be itchy or painful.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 5% of patients. Diarrhea can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by abdominal cramps, fever, and blood in the stool.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of Keytruda, affecting up to 5% of patients. Nausea and vomiting can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, and headache.

Fever

Fever is a common side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 5% of patients. Fever can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by chills, headache, and fatigue.

Cough

Cough is a common side effect of Keytruda, affecting up to 5% of patients. Cough can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, and wheezing.

Less Common Side Effects of Keytruda

In addition to the common side effects listed above, Keytruda can cause a range of less common side effects, including:

Pneumonitis

Pneumonitis, or inflammation of the lungs, is a rare but serious side effect of Keytruda. Symptoms of pneumonitis include cough, fever, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Colitis

Colitis, or inflammation of the colon, is a rare but serious side effect of Keytruda. Symptoms of colitis include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and blood in the stool.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver, is a rare but serious side effect of Keytruda. Symptoms of hepatitis include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and yellowing of the skin and eyes.

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 important for patients to talk to their doctor about any side effects they are experiencing and to follow their treatment plan carefully.

Conclusion

Keytruda is a powerful medication that has shown promising results in treating various types of cancer. While it can cause a range of side effects, many of these side effects can be managed with medication and other treatments. By understanding the side effects of Keytruda, patients can better prepare themselves for treatment and work with their doctor to manage any side effects that may arise.

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 hypothyroidism, fatigue, rash, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, fever, and cough.
* Less common side effects of Keytruda include pneumonitis, colitis, and hepatitis.
* Side effects of Keytruda can often be managed with medication and other treatments.
* Patients should talk to their doctor about any side effects they are experiencing and follow their treatment plan carefully.

FAQs

1. What is Keytruda used to treat?

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

2. How does Keytruda work?

Keytruda works by boosting the body's natural defense system to fight cancer cells.

3. What are the common side effects of Keytruda?

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

4. Can side effects of Keytruda be managed?

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

5. Who should not take Keytruda?

Keytruda is not recommended for patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to pembrolizumab or any of its components.

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) Patent Expiration.
3. National Cancer Institute. (2020). Pembrolizumab.
4. American Cancer Society. (2020). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda).
5. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda).