subject: Tips on Using Alimta to Achieve the Best Results [print this page] Tips on Using Alimta to Achieve the Best Results
Alimta is a drug that must be taken according to the prescription of a qualified physician. The dosage is extremely important, as an overdose or missing a dose can prove to be hazardous for the body. There is some information that must be shared with the doctor before taking this medicine. Details of the patient's medical history and some tests are essential before starting treatment. A female patient who is pregnant or breastfeeding must share needs to consult her doctor before taking the drug. This is because Alimta can be harmful to an unborn baby or a newborn. Patients who need to start taking Alimta must stop breastfeeding. This drug can react with other medicines as well and cause serious side effects. For this reason, one must provide the list of other medicines that are being taken on a regular basis to one's doctor.
Who can take Alimta?
Patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the chest cavity, are given this drug, along with another anti-cancer medicine known as cisplatin. Alimta is also given to those who are infected with non-squamous, non-small cell lung cancer, in which malignant cells grow in the tissues present in the lungs. Doctors usually recommend folic acid and Vitamin B12 supplements for people on Alimta treatment, as these vitamins will lower the chances of the various side effects during the treatment.
This drug is given in a special way. It is gradually injected into a vein. The infusion of the drug lasts for a period of 10 minutes. This drug is injected once every 3 weeks. Initial treatment also includes cisplatin. Regular blood tests are a significant part of this treatment because the dose is decided based on the report of the blood tests. The treatment can also be delayed if required, depending on the general condition of the patient.
Side Effects of Alimta:
Alimta has various harmful side effects and thus it is necessary to follow the instructions of the doctor strictly, in order to prevent other health problems while taking this medicine. Avoid taking NSAIDs with this drug. If there is any confusion regarding the treatment or dosage, ask your physician or pharmacist for immediate clarifications regarding which medicines that may contain NSAID. Some general side effects, such as fever, chills, mouth sores or diarrhea, have been reported by some patients. If you observe such symptoms, seek medical help. Nausea, vomiting and stomach upset are other side effects that can be alleviated through the right medication from your physician.
Alimta can also lead to low red and white blood cell count and low platelet count. Feeling tired or severe weakness, various mouth, throat or lip sores, loss of appetite and losing weight rapidly are some other side effects reported by patients on Alimta.
If any of the side effects persist or seem to worsen, seek immediate medical help.
