Injection, Pemetrexed, 10 mg (J9305)

Name of the Procedure

• Common Name: Pemetrexed Injection
• Technical Name: Injection, pemetrexed, 10 mg
• HCPCS Code: J9305

Summary

Pemetrexed injection is a chemotherapy treatment commonly used to target certain types of cancer cells. Administered through an intravenous (IV) line, this medication helps to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells by interfering with their ability to multiply.

Purpose

Pemetrexed injection is primarily used to treat specific types of cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer and certain types of mesothelioma. The goal of the procedure is to reduce the size of the cancer, delay its progression, and alleviate symptoms.

Indications

Pemetrexed is indicated for:

• Non-small cell lung cancer, especially when other treatments have failed or are unsuitable.
• Mesothelioma, usually in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
• Patients who have not responded to other standard treatments or who have cancer that is advanced or metastatic.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions:
  • Fasting is generally not required.
  • Patient may need to adjust or pause certain medications under medical guidance.
• Diagnostic Tests:
  • Complete blood count (CBC) to ensure adequate blood cell levels.
  • Kidney and liver function tests to assess organ function.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: Prior to the injection, a healthcare provider will perform an assessment, review medical history, and confirm the diagnosis.
2. Insertion of IV Line: An IV line is inserted into a vein, usually in the arm.
3. Administration: Pemetrexed is diluted and then administered slowly through the IV line over a prescribed duration, typically about 10 minutes.
4. Monitoring: The patient is monitored for any immediate adverse reactions during administration.

Duration

The actual administration of pemetrexed takes about 10 minutes, but the entire visit, including preparation and post-administration observation, may take 1-2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a hospital outpatient clinic, an oncology center, or a specialized chemotherapy infusion center.

Personnel

• Oncologist: Oversees the treatment and monitors progress.
• Nurse: Administers the injection and monitors the patient.
• Pharmacist: Prepares the medication for injection.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks:
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Low blood cell counts
• Rare Risks:
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Kidney or liver function impairment
• Management: Immediate medical attention may be required for severe adverse reactions; supportive treatments such as anti-nausea medications can mitigate common side effects.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Reduction in tumor size and improvement in symptoms.
• Timeline: Benefits can vary but patients may start to notice improvements within weeks of treatment initiation.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care:
  • Hydration is encouraged to help flush the medication and its byproducts from the body.
  • Monitoring for delayed side effects, such as low blood counts.
• Recovery Time: Generally, minimal immediate recovery time is needed, but patients may experience ongoing fatigue.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Alternatives

• Other Treatments:
  • Surgical interventions
  • Radiation therapy
  • Alternative chemotherapy agents
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives may come with different side effect profiles, varying degrees of effectiveness, and different suitability based on the patient's overall health and specific cancer type.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Patients might feel a minor prick during IV insertion and are usually comfortable during the administration.
• After Procedure: Some common symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and potential mild pain where the IV was inserted. Pain management and supportive care are provided as needed.

Patients should always discuss their specific treatment plan and any concerns with their healthcare provider to ensure a clear understanding of what to expect.