In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Keytruda® (pembrolizumab) for the treatment of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
At the time, Keytruda was administered as an intravenous infusion, which could take more than 30 minutes per treatment. While effective, the infusion process required careful scheduling, longer clinic visits, and additional time for monitoring.
Now, the FDA has approved a new method that allows mesothelioma patients to receive their treatment in about 1 minute, dramatically reducing the time spent in a clinic or hospital. The injection also makes treatment more convenient and less disruptive to patients’ daily lives.
What Is the New Keytruda Injection for Mesothelioma?
Called Keytruda Qlex™, the new injection is a faster way to receive this immunotherapy. Keytruda Qlex is a subcutaneous immunotherapy , meaning it’s delivered under the skin instead of through a vein. It’s combined with a special enzyme known as berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph that helps the medicine absorb more quickly and evenly.
Unlike the traditional intravenous (IV) infusion, which requires patients to sit through a 30- to 40-minute procedure, subcutaneous Keytruda is given as a quick injection similar to a routine flu shot. Patients can receive their treatment in about 1 minute in their doctor’s office instead of going to the hospital.
Clinical studies have shown that this new injection delivers the same effectiveness as the traditional IV infusion.
By simplifying the administration process, Keytruda Qlex allows patients to focus more on recovery and quality of life while getting treatment to help their body fight this asbestos-related cancer.
“We are committed to putting patients first, as we work relentlessly to discover new options that may help patients manage their treatment in a way that fits their needs,” said Dr. Marjorie Green, senior vice president and head of oncology at Merck Research Laboratories.
What the Keytruda Injection Means for Mesothelioma Patients
For patients with mesothelioma, the new Keytruda injection makes a meaningful difference in day-to-day life, making treatment easier and less disruptive.
By simplifying the delivery method, patients can spend less time in medical settings and focus more on daily life, recovery, and overall well-being.
Benefits of Keytruda’s subcutaneous approval for mesothelioma include:
- Faster treatment: The injection takes about 1 minute, compared to 30-40 minutes for a traditional IV infusion.
- Less scheduling burden: Shorter appointments make it easier to fit treatment into daily routines and reduce the need to schedule sessions around work, caregiving, or travel.
- Reduced travel stress: Patients who live far from mesothelioma cancer centers or have limited mobility spend less time commuting for treatment.
- Maintains treatment effectiveness: Clinical trials show that the new injection is just as effective as the traditional IV infusion.
- Convenience for multiple rounds: Many mesothelioma patients require repeated treatments. The quicker, simpler administration reduces fatigue and logistical challenges associated with ongoing therapy.
“As part of supporting patients and families through their cancer journeys, we are excited to see patient-focused developments in subcutaneous cancer treatment that shorten administration time and may allow for more patients to receive treatment in multiple health care settings,” said Cancer Support Community Chief Executive Officer Sally Werner.
For those undergoing treatment for mesothelioma, the ability to receive therapy quickly and conveniently can make a significant difference in your quality of life.
Download our Free Immunotherapy Guide to learn how treatments like Keytruda help the immune system fight mesothelioma, what to expect during therapy, and how to manage side effects.
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