KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) is an immunotherapy that can cause various common side effects as your immune system works to fight cancer. The experience of "how sick" one feels can vary significantly from person to person, both in the type and severity of symptoms experienced.
Common Side Effects of KEYTRUDA
When KEYTRUDA is used alone, the common side effects reported include:
- Fatigue: A general feeling of being tired or lacking energy.
- Pain: This can manifest in different parts of the body, including:
- Muscle pain
- Bone pain
- Joint pain
- Stomach-area (abdominal) pain
- Skin Reactions:
- Rash
- Itching
- Gastrointestinal Issues:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Flu-like Symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Respiratory Issues:
- Shortness of breath
- Hormonal Changes:
- Low levels of thyroid hormone
It's important to understand that while these are common side effects, not everyone will experience all of them, and their intensity can differ. Any new or worsening symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider. They can help manage these effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.
