10 Keytruda Side Effects And How to Deal With Them
10 Keytruda Side Effects And How to Deal With
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of cancer. It is a type of immunotherapy that works by helping the immune system attack cancer cells. Keytruda is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects like all medications. Here are 10 possible Keytruda side effects and some suggestions for how to manage them
10 Possible Keytruda Side Effects
Hair loss –
Side effects of keytruda, like hair loss, are typically transient. Several weeks after your last dose, if you are experiencing hair loss due to taking Keytruda, your hair should begin to grow back. Cooling caps, made to keep your scalp chilly, could stop hair loss. The blood flow to your scalp is reduced by cooling caps, which may diminish the impact of Keytruda or chemotherapy on your hair. If a cooling cap is appropriate for you, ask your doctor.
Avoid overusing harsh hairstyle equipment as your hair starts to grow back. These include hair straighteners and blow dryers. To keep your hair healthy and able to grow, you should also refrain from bleaching or dying it.
Skin rash –
Some people taking Keytruda may develop a rash on their skin. Keytruda’s side effects can occasionally result in severe rashes and other skin problems. These include toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) (TEN). You get a rash and painful sore on your eyes, genitalia, mouth, or throat when you have SJS and TEN. To manage a rash, use mild, unscented soaps and moisturizers, and avoid exposure to the sun. Avoid taking a hot bath or shower. Bathe in cool water mixed with oatmeal or baking soda instead. Scratching should be avoided since it might aggravate the itch and rash, and use a moisturizer to keep your skin moisturized.
You can also use over-the-counter steroid creams like hydrocortisone or antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl). But before combining additional medications with Keytruda, see your doctor or pharmacist.
Diarrhea –
Keytruda can cause diarrhea, which can be uncomfortable and disruptive. To manage this Keytruda side effect, drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, and try to eat foods that are easy to digest, such as rice, bananas, and toast. If your schedule permits, try resting in bed to give your body time to recover from the lost fluids.
Nausea –
Keytruda can cause nausea, making it difficult to eat or drink. Try eating smaller, more frequent meals to manage nausea and avoid strong-smelling or spicy foods. Also, avoid going out in direct sunlight and wearing tight body-fitting clothes.
Constipation –
Keytruda can also cause constipation, which can be uncomfortable and disrupt your daily routine. To manage constipation, try to eat a diet high in fiber, drink plenty of fluids, and exercise regularly. Avoid eating spicy and junk food that can further make you feel uncomfortable.
Fever –
Keytruda can cause a fever, a sign of infection. If you have a fever while taking Keytruda, contact your healthcare provider immediately, as it might be a sign of some serious condition. Your doctor might recommend over-the-counter medications like aspirin or naproxen if your fever is regular.
Cough –
Keytruda can cause a cough that can irritate and disrupt sleep. To manage a cough, try drinking fluids to help loosen mucus, and avoid exposure to irritants like smoke and strong perfumes. If you are a smoker you should consider quitting as it might worsen this Keytruda side effect.
Shortness of breath –
Keytruda can cause shortness of breath, which can be alarming and disrupt your daily activities. If you experience shortness of breath while taking Keytruda, contact your healthcare provider immediately, as it can be serious from a medical point of view.
Joint pain or muscle pain –
Some people taking Keytruda may experience joint pain, which can be uncomfortable and disrupt daily activities. To manage joint pain, try using over-the-counter pain medications, applying heat or cold to the affected area, and engaging in low-impact activities that don’t put too much strain on your joints. You can also try stretching your muscles and taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol and ibuprofen.
Changes in appetite –
Keytruda can cause changes in appetite, leading to weight gain or weight loss. To manage changes in appetite, try to eat a healthy, balanced diet and avoid skipping meals. If you have trouble eating or drinking due to side effects, talk to your healthcare provider about other options, such as supplements or nutrition support.
Things to bear in mind before taking Keytruda:
If you have specific medical issues or other variables that affect your health, Keytruda is not your best choice. Before using Keytruda, discuss your medical history with your doctor. The following list of variables should be considered as they might worsen Keytruda side effects:
- History of allergic reactions
- If you are already receiving treatment for multiple myeloma
- If you have been a receiver of an organ transplant
- If you have received a stem cell transplant or are required to do it in the future.
Tips to keep Keytruda side effects at bay –
- Avoid alcohol consumption as it may worsen Keytruda’s side-effects like diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea.
- You must avoid Keytruda if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it might cause harm to the infant.
Keytruda side effects are temporary and should go away as soon as you stop taking the drug.
Final takeaway –
It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with Keytruda is different, and some people may not experience any side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about side effects. They can help you manage any side effects you may be experiencing and ensure that you benefit most from your treat
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