Information for the public
Pembrolizumab (Keytruda), taken with carboplatin and paclitaxel, is available on the NHS as a possible treatment for squamous non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in adults if:
- they have not had treatment before
- their cancer has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic)
- their tumours express a protein called PD-L1 at either:
- a level of 0% to 49% or
- more than 50% and they need urgent treatment.
Pembrolizumab should be stopped after 2 years of continuous treatment.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS website may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Roy Castle Lung Foundation, 0333 323 7200
- Lung Cancer Nursing UK (LCNUK), 01675 477607
- Cancer Research UK, 0808 800 4040
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-4437-8
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