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This product requires a valid prescription
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Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of Alimta.
Alimta (pemetrexed) interferes with the production and maintenance of DNA, which is the genetic material in the cells of the body. Alimta (pemetrexed) has a greater effect on cells that reproduce often, like cancer cells. This is how Alimta (pemetrexed) works in the treatment of cancer. Alimta (pemetrexed) is used in the treatment of pleural mesothelioma, a form of lung cancer associated with exposure to asbestos. Alimta (pemetrexed) may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. Before taking Alimta (pemetrexed) , tell your doctor if you have · kidney disease; · an immune system disorder; · blood or bone marrow problems; · an infection; or · fluid around the lungs or in the abdomen. You may not be able to take Alimta (pemetrexed), or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during therapy if you have any of the conditions listed above. Alimta (pemetrexed) is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that Alimta is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Alimta (pemetrexed) without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Discuss with your doctor the appropriate use of birth control during treatment with Alimta (pemetrexed). Alimta (pemetrexed) may be harmful to a nursing infant. Breast-feeding is not recommended during treatment with Alimta (pemetrexed). Alimta should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of Alimta. Alimta (pemetrexed) will be administered as an intravenous (into a vein) injection by a healthcare provider. Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with Alimta (pemetrexed). Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule. If you are injecting Alimta (pemetrexed) at home, your doctor will give you detailed instructions regarding preparation, administration, and storage of Alimta (pemetrexed). Your doctor may prescribe additional medications such as other chemotherapy medicines, a steroid, folic acid, and vitamin B12, to be taken during treatment with Alimta (pemetrexed). Additional medications may be necessary for adequate treatment or to reduce the incidence or severity of side effects from treatment with Alimta (pemetrexed). It is important to use Alimta (pemetrexed)regularly to get the most benefit. Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with Alimta (pemetrexed) to monitor progress and side effects. Your healthcare provider will store Alimta (pemetrexed) as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing Alimta (pemetrexed) at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider. Do not take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, others), ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Orudis, Oruvail), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Anaprox), and others except under the direction of your doctor. In some cases, an NSAID may be taken during treatment with Alimta, but should only be done under the direction of your doctor. If you experience any of the following serious Alimta side effects seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: · an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat; difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives); · fever, chills, sore throat, unusual bruising or bleeding, black, bloody or tarry stools (possible blood problems); · numbness or tingling (possible nerve problems); · severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite; · skin rash; or · sores in the mouth. • Other, less serious Alimta side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Alimta and notify your doctor if you experience · mild to moderate nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite; · depressed mood; or · fatigue. • Alimta side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any Alimta side effects that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. |
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