Abstract
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and dose-limiting side effects of pemetrexed use in patients with advanced-stage non-small-cell lung adenocarcinoma.
METHODS
This study was conducted retrospectively by examining the files of patients who received treatment between 2017 and 2019. The dose-limiting side effects of the patients were evaluated by looking at the blood tests taken before each cycle and the notes in their files. All toxicities were classified by using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events.
RESULTS
The most common dose-limiting side effect was neutropenia, which developed in 50% of the patients. Side effects that affecting all blood series were observed in 28,1% of patients. The incidence of side effects of platinum given with pemetrexed was similar. Longer median survival was statistically correlated within patients receiving pemetrexed + platinum combination chemotherapy in the second and subsequent lines (p < 0.05).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
Pemetrexed is an easily tolerated and effective chemotherapy agent in advanced-stage non-small-cell lung carcinomas.