Keytruda® (pembrolizumab) is a prescription cancer immunotherapy given by intravenous infusion. It belongs to a class of drugs called immune checkpoint inhibitors.bortezomib-injection

How It Works

• Keytruda is a monoclonal antibody that targets PD-1 (programmed death-1) receptors on T-cells.

• Many cancers evade the immune system by activating the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, which “switches off” T-cells.

• Keytruda blocks this interaction, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

Administration (Infusion)

• Given as an IV infusion into a vein, usually over 30 minutes.

• Typical schedule: every 3 or 6 weeks, depending on the prescribed dose.

• Administered in a hospital or clinic under supervision.methamphetamine-uk

Cancers Treated With Keytruda

Approved for multiple cancers, including:

• Melanoma (skin cancer)

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

• Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

• Classical Hodgkin lymphoma

• Kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma)

• Bladder cancer (urothelial carcinoma)

• Cervical, stomach, liver, colorectal cancers (in specific cases)

• And others, often depending on PD-L1 expression or genetic biomarkers (like MSI-H or dMMR tumors).

Common Side Effects

• Fatigue, itching, rash

• Loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea

• Joint or muscle pain

• Cough

Serious Risks (Immune-Related)

Because Keytruda activates the immune system, it can sometimes attack normal organs → leading to immune-related side effects, which can be serious:

• Lungs: pneumonitis (inflammation → breathing problems)

• Colon: colitis (severe diarrhea)

• Liver: hepatitis

• Endocrine glands: thyroid problems, adrenal insufficiency, diabetes

• Skin: severe rashes

These may require stopping treatment and using steroids or immunosuppressants.

✅ Bottom line: Keytruda infusion is a powerful treatment that can extend survival in many cancers by “releasing the brakes” on the immune system, but it must be carefully monitored for potentially serious immune side effects.tamoxifen-uk