We know that fighting cancer is not an easy journey. It is normal to feel a little scared when you hear the word "chemotherapy". But being properly informed about this treatment is the best way to overcome that fear. Today we are talking about the drug Pralatrexate, which is used to treat a type of cancer called Lymphoma. If you or a loved one has been prescribed this, this article will be very useful for you.
What kind of medicine is Pralatrexate?
Simply put, Pralatrexate is a chemotherapy drug that kills cancer cells. Cancer cells in our body are cells that divide and grow very quickly. This drug specifically targets these rapidly growing cells . Therefore, it helps control the growth of cancer cells and destroy them. In particular, this drug is most commonly used to treat a type of cancer called lymphoma.
This medicine may also be used by doctors for other medical conditions, so if you have any questions about why you are being given this medicine, ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting treatment
Before starting treatment with Pralatrexate, it is very important to give your doctor a complete picture of your health. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Current infections: If you have any other infections, including viral infections like chickenpox and herpes.
- Kidney or liver disease: If you have any kidney or liver disease.
- Low blood cell count: If you have been told that your blood has low levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets.
- Allergies: If you have an allergy to Pralatrexate or any other medicine, food, dye, or preservative.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding .
How is this medicine given? And what to do in an emergency?
This medicine is not something you can take home. It is an injection that is given through a vein (infusion) . This treatment is only given in a hospital or clinic, under the direct supervision of trained medical staff. So there is no need to worry about safety.
What if I miss a dose of treatment?
If you are unable to attend your scheduled appointment, do not ignore it. Call your doctor or clinic immediately to let them know and get advice on what to do next.
What if I take too much medicine?
This is given in a hospital setting, so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you suspect that you have overdosed, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be especially careful about while taking the medicine
You need to take a little extra care of your body while taking this medicine.
- Protect yourself from infections: This medicine lowers your body's ability to fight off infections (immunity). Therefore, if you develop symptoms of a cold such as fever, chills, sore throat, and cough , do not take medicine like paracetamol on your own, but call your doctor immediately . Also, avoid crowded places and avoid contact with sick people as much as possible.
- Bleeding and bruising: This medicine may cause you to bruise easily, even if you have a small cut. Also, tell your doctor if you have bleeding gums, nosebleeds, or pinpoint red or purple spots on your skin for no apparent reason.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (very important):
- Women: Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 6 months after your last dose of treatment . This can cause serious harm to your unborn baby.
- Men: If you are receiving this treatment, avoid fathering a child during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose .
- Breastfeeding: Avoid breastfeeding your baby while taking this medicine and for one week after stopping treatment.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any chemotherapy drug, Pralatrexate can cause side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Below are some of the possible side effects and what to do if they occur.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Symptoms of low blood cell count | Symptoms of infection: fever, chills, sore throat, pain when urinating. Signs of bleeding: bruising, red spots on the skin, blood in stool. Symptoms of low red blood cells: extreme fatigue, paleness, fainting. |
| Mouth or throat sores | Mouth sores, pain when swallowing. |
| Things that are usually not dangerous, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Digestive system problems | Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Talk to your doctor as there are medications to control these. |
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Other medications you take can affect how Pralatrexate works. So tell your doctor about everything you use, especially:
- Painkillers (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen.
- Probenecid.
- Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole.
This list is not complete. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, herbs, and dietary supplements you are taking. It is also important to tell your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs .
Take-Home Message
- Pralatrexate is a powerful anti-cancer drug that is given intravenously in a hospital under medical supervision.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all medications you are taking.
- If you develop signs of infection such as fever, chills, or unusual bruising or bleeding while taking the medication, notify your doctor immediately.
- Completely avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding during treatment and for the duration prescribed by the doctor.
- Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about any discomfort, side effects, or concerns you may have. You are not alone in this journey.
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