Keytruda can change the way your immune system works, which may cause certain side effects that can lead to serious medical problems.
Keytruda can cause side effects in many different parts of your body. Some side effects may need to be treated with other medicine, and your cancer treatments may be delayed. You will need frequent medical tests to help your doctor determine if it is safe for you to keep receiving Keytruda.
Call your doctor at once if you have: skin problems, vision problems, fever, swollen glands, neck stiffness, chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, muscle or joint pain, pale skin, weakness, diarrhea, severe stomach pain, blood in your stools, bruising or bleeding, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, a hormonal disorder (frequent headaches, feeling light-headed, rapid heartbeats, a deeper voice, increased thirst or urination, feeling cold, weight gain or loss), or a change in the amount or color of your urine.
Before taking this medicine
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
lung disease or a breathing disorder;
liver disease;
diabetes, or a thyroid disorder;
an adrenal gland disorder;
an autoimmune disorder such as lupus, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis; or
an organ transplant or stem cell transplant.
You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment. Do not use Keytruda if you are pregnant. Pembrolizumab could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 4 months after your last dose. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
Do not breastfeed while using pembrolizumab, and for at least 4 months after your last dose.
How is Keytruda given?
Keytruda is given as an infusion into a vein, usually once every 3 weeks or every 6 weeks. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Your doctor will perform a blood test to make sure Keytruda is the right treatment for your condition.
This medicine must be given slowly, and the infusion can take at least 30 minutes to complete.
You will need frequent medical tests to help your doctor determine if it is safe for you to keep receiving Keytruda. Do not miss any follow-up visits.
