Information for the public
Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) is available on the NHS as a possible treatment for untreated metastatic colorectal cancer in adults if:
- their tumours have mutations that cause high microsatellite instability or mismatch repair deficiency, and
- pembrolizumab is stopped after 2 years of treatment without the disease getting worse.
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:
- Bowel Cancer UK, 0207 940 1760
- 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: 978-1-4731-4161-2
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