Question 1

What is this medicine for, and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

This is a folic acid antagonist antineoplastic. It works by interfering with DNA synthesis to prevent cancer cell growth. It is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer.

Question 2

When and how should this medicine be taken?

Accepted Answer

• For IV infusion only • Infuse over 10 minutes • Must be diluted before administration • Give in 100mL normal saline

Question 3

When should this medicine not be used?

Accepted Answer

• Regular blood count monitoring needed • Take folate and vitamin B12 supplements • Use corticosteroids to prevent skin reactions • Caution in kidney/liver problems • Avoid during pregnancy

Question 4

What precautions should be taken before using this medicine?

Accepted Answer

• Regular blood count monitoring needed • Take folate and vitamin B12 supplements • Use corticosteroids to prevent skin reactions • Caution in kidney/liver problems • Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Question 5

Is it safe to use this medicine during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

• Not safe during pregnancy; • May cause fetal harm; • Avoid use and use contraception

Question 6

Can this medicine be used while breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

• Regular blood count monitoring needed • Take folate and vitamin B12 supplements • Use corticosteroids to prevent skin reactions • Caution in kidney/liver problems • Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Question 7

Is this medicine suitable for children and elderly?

Accepted Answer

• Safety unknown in children • Higher risk of side effects in elderly

Question 8

What should be done if a dose is missed?

Accepted Answer

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. • However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. • Never take two doses together. • For once-daily dosing: If you remember on the same day, take the dose. • For twice-daily dosing: If there's more than 8 hours until your next dose, take the missed dose. • Take your next dose at the regular time. • If you're unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Question 9

What should be done in case of an overdose?

Accepted Answer

• Symptoms: Myelosuppression, mucositis. • Treatment: Leucovorin therapy, supportive care.

Question 10

What should be done if side effects are experienced?

Accepted Answer

• Common side effects: Nausea, fatigue, breathing difficulty, low blood counts, vomiting, constipation, chest pain• What to do:- Regular blood tests- Take vitamins as prescribed- Report breathing problems- Stay hydrated- Follow anti-nausea regimen; Stop taking the medication and seek medical advice if any severe side effect or unusual symptoms occur.

Question 11

What is Alimta 500mg used for?

Accepted Answer

Alimta 500mg (Pemetrexed) is a pharmaceutical medicine manufactured by Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd. in Bangladesh. It is primarily prescribed for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma, Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC).

Question 12

What is the active generic component of Alimta?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Alimta is Pemetrexed, belonging to the Antimetabolites drug class.

Question 13

What is the retail price of Alimta 500mg in Bangladesh?

Accepted Answer

The official retail price of Alimta 500mg (Injection) is ৳64187.00 in Bangladesh (prices may vary slightly by pack size and authorized pharmacy).

Question 14

What is the recommended dosage for Alimta?

Accepted Answer

Standard adult dosage: Intravenous – 500 mg/m² (once every 21-day cycle on Day 1). Pediatric dosage: Tablet – Safety and efficacy not established. Always consult a registered physician for individualized dosage adjustments based on clinical assessment.

Question 15

Is Alimta safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Alimta is classified under Pregnancy Category "Not Assigned". Always consult your healthcare provider or OB/GYN before taking this medication during pregnancy or lactation.

Question 16

What are the common side effects of Alimta?

Accepted Answer

**More than 10%**; Nausea (84%);Fatigue (80%);Pulmonary dyspnea (66%);Neutropenia (58%);Vomiting (58%);Leukopenia (55%);Constipation (44%);Chest pain (40%);Anorexia (35%);Anemia (33%);Pharyngitis (28%);Stomatitis (28%);T

Clinical Information	Administration Information
Indication: Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Condition: Unresectable or not candidates for curative surgery	Dose: Intravenous – 500 mg/m² Frequency: once every 21-day cycle on Day 1 Note: Administer over 10 minutes; administer cisplatin (75 mg/m² intravenous over 2 hours) 30 minutes after end of pemetrexed infusion.
Indication: Nonsquamous Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Condition: Initial treatment	Dose: Intravenous – 500 mg/m² Frequency: once every 21-day cycle on Day 1 Note: Administered with cisplatin (75 mg/m² intravenous over 2 hours) 30 minutes after end of pemetrexed infusion.

Drug Name	Risk Factors
NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac, Celecoxib, Meloxicam, Indomethacin, Piroxicam, Ketorolac), aspirin	High doses may reduce the elimination of pemetrexed; avoid usage 2 days (5 days for longer-acting NSAIDs) before, during and 2 days after treatment in patients with impaired renal function
SSRIs, acetylCholinesterase Inhibitors (Neostigmine, Pyridostigmine, Donepezil), aripiprazole, ziprasidone	Additive GI side effects

Medicine Overview

Indication

What is this medicine for, and how does it work?

When and how should this medicine be taken?

When should this medicine not be used?

What precautions should be taken before using this medicine?

Is it safe to use this medicine during pregnancy?

Can this medicine be used while breastfeeding?

Is this medicine suitable for children and elderly?

What should be done if a dose is missed?

What should be done in case of an overdose?

What should be done if side effects are experienced?

Adult Dose

Child Dose

Renal Dose

Drug Interaction

Disease Interaction

Pregnancy

Data Sources