Explore how Keytruda is transforming lung cancer treatment.
Learn about its role in immunotherapy, patient eligibility, and how it compares to other top treatments.
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is a PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor developed by Merck. It is FDA-approved for several cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)—the most common type of lung cancer in the U.S.
Keytruda works by helping the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy, depending on the cancer stage and PD-L1 expression levels.
How Keytruda Treats Lung Cancer
Keytruda is commonly used in:
Metastatic NSCLC with high PD-L1 expression (≥50%) as first-line monotherapy
Advanced NSCLC in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy
Patients with tumors without EGFR or ALK mutations
Keytruda blocks the PD-1 receptor on T-cells,preventing cancer cells from evading immune detection.
Benefits of Keytruda for Lung Cancer
Increases overall survival in advanced lung cancer patients
Fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy
Can be effective even in chemo-resistant cases
Offers a non-surgical option for inoperable tumors
May be used in adjuvant (post-surgery) or first-line settings
Common Side Effects of Keytruda
While Keytruda is generally well tolerated, it can cause:
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Rash
Diarrhea
Immune-related side effects (thyroid, liver, lung inflammation)
Patients are closely monitored through blood tests and imaging scans throughout treatment.
How to Know If You're Eligible
You may qualify for Keytruda treatment if:
You have NSCLC with high PD-L1 expression
Your cancer is advanced, recurrent, or inoperable
You have no EGFR or ALK gene mutations
You are medically fit for immunotherapy
A biopsy and molecular testing are required to determine PD-L1 levels and guide treatment.