Pralatrexate Injection

Category: Antineoplastic / Chemotherapy drug (Antifolate)
Form: Injectable solution for intravenous (IV) use

Uses:

• Primarily used to treat peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL), especially in patients with relapsed or refractory disease.

• Sometimes used in combination with other chemotherapy agents under specialist guidance.

Mechanism of Action:

• Pralatrexate is a folate analog metabolic inhibitor.

• Enters cells via reduced folate carrier (RFC-1) more efficiently than normal cells, concentrating in rapidly dividing cancer cells.

• Inhibits dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) and thymidylate synthase, disrupting DNA and RNA synthesis.

• Leads to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in malignant T-cells.

Administration:

• Administered intravenously once weekly for a defined period as per treatment protocol.

• Pre-medication with folic acid and vitamin B12 is recommended to reduce toxicity.

• Dosage is individualized based on body surface area, kidney function, and patient condition.

Side Effects:

• Hematologic: anemia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia.

• Gastrointestinal: mucositis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

• Other: fatigue, rash, fever, liver enzyme elevation.

• Rarely: severe myelosuppression or allergic reactions.

Precautions:

• Monitor blood counts, liver function, and kidney function during therapy.

• Supplement with folic acid and vitamin B12 to reduce hematologic and gastrointestinal toxicity.

• Adjust dosage in patients with renal impairment.

• Ensure hydration and oral care to minimize mucositis.

Summary:
Pralatrexate Injection is an antifolate chemotherapy drug used for relapsed or refractory peripheral T-cell lymphoma. It selectively enters cancer cells and inhibits folate-dependent enzymes, blocking DNA and RNA synthesis, which leads to cell death. Administered intravenously, it requires vitamin supplementation and close monitoring for blood, liver, and kidney function. Side effects include low blood counts, mucositis, gastrointestinal upset, and fatigue.