What side effects are associated with the cancer-fighting drug Alimta?

Most patients treated with Alimta will experience some side effects. The most common side effects of Alimta are:

• Upset stomach, including nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea

• A drop in white blood cells, increasing the risk of infection

• A drop in red blood cells (anemia), causing tiredness or shortness of breath

• A drop in platelets that results in bruising or bleeding

• Tiredness

• Mouth, throat, or lip sores

• Loss of appetite

• Rash

You should contact your doctor if you have signs of infection, such as fever (temperature above 100.4F) chills, diarrhea, or mouth sores.