From the Research
Amoxicillin can generally be taken while on Keytruda (pembrolizumab), but it is crucial to inform your oncologist about all medications you're taking. There are no known significant drug interactions between amoxicillin (an antibiotic) and Keytruda (an immunotherapy medication) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. If you need to treat a bacterial infection while on immunotherapy, amoxicillin may be prescribed at typical dosages (usually 250-500mg three times daily for adults, depending on infection severity). However, since Keytruda affects your immune system, your doctor might monitor you more closely for any unusual side effects or infection responses. This is particularly important because immunotherapy can occasionally cause immune-related adverse events that might be confused with infection symptoms.
Key Considerations
- Always inform your oncologist about all medications you're taking
- No known significant drug interactions between amoxicillin and Keytruda
- Amoxicillin may be prescribed at typical dosages for bacterial infections
- Close monitoring for unusual side effects or infection responses is necessary
- Treating infections promptly is crucial for patients on immunotherapy
Treatment Guidelines
- Follow the prescribed antibiotic course, even if symptoms improve before completion
- Be aware of potential immune-related adverse events that might be confused with infection symptoms
- Inform your doctor about any concerns or unusual symptoms during treatment
Evidence Summary
The provided evidence does not directly address the interaction between amoxicillin and Keytruda. However, based on the available information, there are no known significant drug interactions between the two medications 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. The most recent and highest quality study is not directly applicable to this question, but the general consensus is that amoxicillin can be used safely in patients on immunotherapy, with close monitoring for potential side effects or interactions.