Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Alimta
Pemetrexed is an antifolate antineoplastic agent used in the treatment of certain types of lung cancer and mesothelioma. It works by inhibiting several enzymes crucial for DNA and RNA synthesis, specifically thymidylate synthase, dihydrofolate reductase, and glycinamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase. This inhibition blocks cell division and growth, leading to tumor cell death.
For the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma and non-small cell lung cancer.
Myelosuppression, including neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia, can occur with pemetrexed and may be life-threatening. Fatal and serious cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported. Pemetrexed is embryotoxic and fetotoxic in animals. Advise women of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and to avoid becoming pregnant during treatment.
Outcome:
Increased risk of pemetrexed toxicity
Mechanism:
Reduced renal clearance of pemetrexed
Outcome:
Decreased risk of pemetrexed-related toxicity
Mechanism:
Replenishment of folate stores
Outcome:
May slightly decrease pemetrexed absorption
Mechanism:
Altered gastrointestinal pH
Most likely new formulation: Liposomal pemetrexed for enhanced delivery and reduced toxicity (Year: 2026, 60% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and clinical trial outcomes, there is a 75% likelihood of pemetrexed maintaining its approved indications for the next 5 years.
Antineoplastic, Antifolate
Multitargeted antifolate