Side Effects of Pemetrexed

Because Pemetrexed prevents cell replication by interfering with folate-dependent processes, the drug also affects normal cells in the body and thus can cause several significant side effects in the body. These include, low white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC) and platelet count, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, anemia, anorxia, rashes, edema, and vomiting. These side effects are usually controlled by prescribing supplements, such as Vitamin B-12 and folic acid.

Premetrexed may also affect fertility of the patient and you might find it difficult to conceive or father a child.

Side effects faced by patients differ depending on the type of cancer and the combination drug along which Pemetrexed is administered. The side effects may also be different in different patients. Most of the times, these side effects are non-permanent and the symptoms go away after the treatment is complete.

You must always inform your doctor if you feel you are experiencing side effects after the Pemetrexed treatment is started. Your doctor is the best person to help you control these side effects.

There are certain things that you need to tell your doctor to ensure that Pemetrexed treatment is right for you. For instance, you must tell your doctor if you are or want to become pregnant. This is because Pemetrexed can cause undesirable harm to your unborn baby. You must also inform your doctor in case you have kidney problems or you are taking other medicines including prescription and non-prescription medicines, herbal supplements, Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSIAD) and vitamins.