Lung cancer begins with abnormal cells growing uncontrollably in the lungs. The most common form of this condition is called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). When detected early, NSCLC can be managed with surgery and platinum-based chemotherapy; however, adding KEYTRUDA® to the treatment plan can ensure that the cancer does not come back. KEYTRUDA® is a type of immunotherapy—a common part of lung cancer treatment. Here are a few more things to know:

How does KEYTRUDA® work?
KEYTRUDA® is a form of immunotherapy that works with the immune system to help fight early-stage lung cancer. The immune system is the body’s natural defense mechanism against any intruders that cause harm. The system sends a specific type of cell called T cells to all body parts. These T-cells then detect and try to fight infections and diseases, including cancer. Usually, cancer cells use something known as the PD-1 pathway to hide from the T cells. So, T-cells cannot detect cancer cells, which continue attacking healthy cells and growing unchecked. KEYTRUDA®helps block the PD-1 pathway. So, cancer cells have trouble hiding, and the immune system can detect and fight them. 

How is it used for early-stage NSCLC management?
For early-stage non-small cell lung cancer, KEYTRUDA® can be the first line of treatment when the cancer is restricted to the chest and one cannot undergo chemotherapy with radiation or surgery. KEYTRUDA® can also be used alone when cancer has spread to other areas of the body, but it does not have certain abnormal genes and tests positive for PD-L1 (a protein to which PD-1 attaches). Further, KEYTRUDA® may work as the only form of treatment when chemotherapy has not had favorable results. Apart from this, KEYTRUDA® can be administered along with platinum-based chemotherapy before surgery for early-stage NSCLC. Alternatively, after the tumor has been removed, KEYTRUDA® can be added to the treatment plan to lower the risk of lung cancer from coming back.

How is KEYTRUDA® taken?
As KEYTRUDA® is a form of immunotherapy, it is inserted into the veins using an intravenous or IV line. A treatment session typically lasts about 30 minutes and takes place at a doctor’s or infusion clinic. The number of sessions generally depends on the extent of treatment one requires and how the symptoms of early-stage cancer react to KEYTRUDA®. As every case is different, the number of sessions varies for everyone. Adults are generally administered KEYTRUDA® every 3 or 6 weeks. Children get a dose every 3 weeks. For both adults and children, the gap between each session depends on the exact dose. 

It is essential to consult a doctor to determine the right management options based on the severity of symptoms, cancer stage, and individual preferences.