Uses:
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma
- Non-small cell lung carcinoma
Mechanism of Action:
- Acotrexed 100mg Injection inhibits cell division and replication by blocking specific enzymes involved in folate metabolism and DNA synthesis, preventing cancer cells from growing and multiplying.
Administration:
- Administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion into the vein.
- Dosage and frequency determined by physician based on individual medical condition.
- Not for self-administration; administered by healthcare professional.
Safety Advice:
- Pregnancy: Do not take if pregnant. Consult doctor before starting treatment.
- Breastfeeding: Unsafe to breastfeed while taking Acotrexed 100mg.
- Lungs: Consult doctor if experiencing shortness of breath, blockage, or inflammation in the lung lining.
- Liver: Inform physician about any underlying liver disorders.
- Alcohol: Unknown if safe to consume alcohol while taking Acotrexed 100mg. Consult doctor.
- Driving: Unsafe to drive or use machines due to potential side effects like nausea and fatigue.
Side Effects:
- Serious: Blood infection, severe allergic reaction, breathlessness, intense chest pain, cough with bloody sputum, reduced neutrophil granulocytes, kidney failure, pharyngitis, abnormal liver function.
- Common: Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, redness, swelling or sores in the mouth, loss of appetite, reduced hemoglobin level, increased skin pigmentation, watery and inflamed eyes, taste change, fever, muscle weakness, dehydration, constipation, skin rash, hair loss.
Important Information:
- Discuss fertility concerns with doctor.
- Avoid pregnancy planning.
- Inform doctor about any history of heart disease, kidney problems, or liver problems.
- Notify doctor if you have undergone radiotherapy or taken vaccines before starting Acotrexed 100mg.
FAQs:
Q1: What should I tell my doctor before starting Acotrexed 100mg? A1: Tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially kidney or liver problems, and any medications you are taking.
Q2: Can children or adults under 18 years take Acotrexed 100mg? A2: No, Acotrexed 100mg is not recommended for children or adults under 18 years.
Q3: How often do I need to have blood tests while on Acotrexed 100mg? A3: You will need to have regular blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts, blood uric acid level, and kidney function.
Q4: Can I continue my normal activities while on Acotrexed 100mg? A4: Discuss your activities and any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Q5: How is Acotrexed 100mg administered? A5: A healthcare provider gives Acotrexed 100mg as an intravenous (IV) injection.
Q6: Why do I feel nauseous while taking Acotrexed 100mg? A6: Nausea is a common side effect of chemotherapy drugs, including Acotrexed 100mg.
Fact Box:
- Molecule name: Pemetrexed
- Therapeutic class: Anti-Cancer
- Pharmacological class: Antifolate agent
- Indication:
- Non-small cell lung carcinoma
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma