Keytruda (pembrolizumab) has transformed the way doctors treat lung cancer. As an advanced form of immunotherapy, it boosts the body’s natural defenses to fight cancer cells. This article covers everything you need to know about Keytruda for lung cancer, including treatment, cost, side effects, FDA approval, alternatives, and patient survival rates.

What is Keytruda?

Keytruda is an immunotherapy drug designed to block the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. This prevents cancer cells from hiding from the immune system, allowing T-cells to destroy tumors more effectively.

🔗 Learn more on the FDA official website.

How Keytruda Works for Lung Cancer

• Keytruda is given by IV infusion every 3–6 weeks.

• It is mainly prescribed for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and in some cases for small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

• Treatment depends on PD-L1 expression levels and whether patients have EGFR or ALK mutations.

Keytruda vs. Chemotherapy

Keytruda Survival Rate for Lung Cancer

• For advanced NSCLC, the 5-year survival rate with Keytruda is ~23%.

• With chemotherapy alone, survival is ~5–10%.

• Combination therapy (Keytruda + chemo) increases overall survival in many studies.

Side Effects of Keytruda

Keytruda is generally better tolerated than chemo, but it can trigger immune-related reactions, such as:

• Fatigue

• Cough and shortness of breath

• Loss of appetite

• Rash or itching

• Diarrhea

• Inflammation of lungs (pneumonitis), colon (colitis), liver (hepatitis), or thyroid

Always consult an oncologist before and during treatment.

Keytruda Cost for Lung Cancer

The cost of Keytruda is very high compared to traditional treatments.

• USA: $10,000–$13,000 per infusion

• Annual cost: $150,000–$200,000

• Insurance: Some plans cover part of the cost

• Patient assistance: Merck offers financial support programs

🔗 More info: Merck Patient Assistance Program.

FDA Approval and Availability

• FDA first approved Keytruda in 2014 (melanoma)

• Approved for NSCLC in 2016

• Currently used in over 65 countries

Alternatives to Keytruda for Lung Cancer

• Opdivo (nivolumab)

• Tecentriq (atezolizumab)

• Imfinzi (durvalumab)

• Targeted therapy (EGFR/ALK inhibitors)

• Chemotherapy or radiation

✅ 20 Keytruda Lung Cancer FAQs

1. What is Keytruda used for in lung cancer?

Keytruda is used to treat advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and some cases of small cell lung cancer.

2. How does Keytruda work in the body?

It blocks the PD-1 receptor on T-cells, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

3. Is Keytruda a chemotherapy drug?

No. Keytruda is an immunotherapy, not chemotherapy.

4. How is Keytruda given?

It is administered by IV infusion every 3–6 weeks.

5. What is the average survival rate with Keytruda?

Around 23% 5-year survival rate in advanced NSCLC patients.

6. Does Keytruda cure lung cancer?

No, but it can extend life and improve quality of life in many patients.

7. How much does Keytruda cost in the US?

Approximately $10,000–$13,000 per dose.

8. Does insurance cover Keytruda?

Most insurance plans and Medicare may cover part of the cost, depending on eligibility.

9. What are the most common side effects?

Fatigue, cough, skin rash, diarrhea, and thyroid issues.

10. What are the serious risks of Keytruda?

Immune-related conditions such as pneumonitis, colitis, hepatitis, or severe endocrine issues.

11. Who is eligible for Keytruda treatment?

Patients with PD-L1 positive tumors and no EGFR/ALK mutations.

12. Can Keytruda be combined with chemotherapy?

Yes, combination therapy often improves survival rates.

13. How long can you stay on Keytruda?

Treatment can last up to 2 years, depending on response and tolerance.

14. How quickly does Keytruda start working?

Some patients respond within weeks, others may take months.

15. Is Keytruda FDA-approved for lung cancer?

Yes, it was FDA-approved for NSCLC in 2016.

16. Can Keytruda be used for small cell lung cancer (SCLC)?

Yes, in certain cases after other treatments fail.

17. What alternatives exist to Keytruda?

Opdivo, Tecentriq, Imfinzi, targeted therapies, and traditional chemo.

18. Does Keytruda improve quality of life?

Many patients report fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy.

19. Can Keytruda cause weight loss?

Indirectly, yes—through appetite loss, nausea, or thyroid issues.

20. Where can I find clinical trials for Keytruda?

Visit ClinicalTrials.gov for ongoing studies.

Conclusion

Keytruda has become a breakthrough treatment for lung cancer, offering hope where chemotherapy alone has failed. While its cost is high, survival benefits and improved quality of life make it a leading choice in oncology today. Patients should always discuss with their doctor whether Keytruda is suitable for their specific case.

How to Get Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) for Lung Cancer?

Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is a prescription-only medication developed by Merck & Co., approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of several cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

👉 Patients cannot buy Keytruda directly online like regular supplements. It is available only through hospitals, oncology centers, and certified healthcare providers. If you or a loved one may be eligible for Keytruda treatment, you should consult an oncologist who can evaluate your condition and prescribe the therapy.

Official Sources for Keytruda:

• 🌐 Official Website: https://www.keytruda.com

• 🌐 Merck Oncology (Manufacturer): https://www.merck.com

• 🌐 FDA Approval Information: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/keytruda

Contact Information (U.S.):

• 📞 Merck Medical Information: 1-877-888-4231

• 📞 Merck Patient Support Program (MSP): 1-855-257-3932

For patients outside the U.S., Keytruda is also available in Europe, the Middle East (including Dubai and Turkey), and many cancer hospitals worldwide. Always contact your local oncology center or ask your doctor to check availability.