Martxel

Martxel is a generic formulation of pemetrexed, a multi-targeted antifolate antineoplastic agent developed by Eriochem. It exerts its therapeutic effect by inhibiting three key enzymes in the folate metabolic pathway: thymidylate synthase (TS), dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), and glycinamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase (GARFT). These enzymes are essential for the de novo synthesis of thymidine and purine nucleotides; their inhibition leads to the disruption of DNA and RNA synthesis, ultimately inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in rapidly dividing tumor cells. Martxel is approved for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma (in combination with cisplatin) and locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Brand names

Martxel

Other names

pemetrexedpemetrexed disodium