Detailed explanation of the treatment course and drug requirements of pemetinib/pemetinib

Pemigatinib is a targeted therapy for certain types of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and myeloid/lymphoid tumors. Pemetinib may be a new hope for patients whose cancer has spread beyond surgical removal and who have previously tried other treatments. It is particularly suitable for patients with cholangiocarcinoma with abnormal FGFR2 genes and patients with myeloid/lymphoid tumors with rearrangements of the FGFR1 gene.

Pemetinib works by interfering with the growth mechanisms of cancer cells, thereby helping the body's own immune system destroy these cells. However, this medication can only be purchased and used with a doctor's prescription. For patients with cholangiocarcinoma, the recommended dose of pemetinib is 13.5 mg per day for 14 days followed by 7 days off. This forms a treatment cycle every 21 days. For patients with myeloid/lymphoid tumors, the recommended dose is also 13.5 mg per day, but they need to be taken continuously unless the condition worsens or intolerable drug toxicity occurs.

During treatment, doctors will adjust drug dosages based on patient response and tolerance. If adverse reactions occur, the dose may be reduced to 4.5 mg per day for only 14 days of each 21-day cycle. If the patient cannot tolerate it even at this lower dose, the doctor may decide to permanently discontinue pemetinib.

In the domestic market, pemetinib tablets are available in two specifications: 4.5 mg 14 tablets and 9 mg 14 tablets. The amount of medication needed for a course of treatment will vary based on the patient's specific dosage and treatment regimen. As a rough estimate, one course of treatment may require about 2 to 3 boxes of medicine. Moreover, this drug is not currently covered by medical insurance, so patients need to purchase it at their own expense.