Alimta Drug Interactions

If you are taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (such as celecoxib or ibuprofen), it's important to know that this type of drug can interact with Alimta. Reactions can also occur when Alimta is taken with probenecid. These interactions can increase the level of Alimta in the blood, as well as your risk of side effects. Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your current medications.

An Overview of Interactions With Alimta

Alimta® (pemetrexed) can potentially interact with a few other medications. Some of the medicines that may lead to Alimta drug interactions include:
 
 
  • Probenecid.
     

Alimta Drug Interactions Explained

The following sections explain in detail the potentially negative interactions that can occur when Alimta is combined with any of the drugs listed above.
 
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs may decrease kidney function, which can increase the level of Alimta in the blood, thereby increasing the risk of Alimta side effects. For people with normal kidney function, it is generally okay to combine Alimta with ibuprofen. For other NSAIDs, your healthcare provider may recommend that you avoid them for a specific period before and after each Alimta dosage. The exact period depends upon the particular NSAID.
 
Check with your healthcare provider before combining any NSAID with Alimta.

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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