A specific type of immunotherapy medicine, a “checkpoint inhibitor” has become a standard treatment for many kinds of cancer. Opdivo, Keytruda, Imfinizi are all currently administered intravenously (IV). The FDA just approved a new way to receive he immunotherapy drug Opdivo. This new version, called Opdivo Qvantig, can be given as an injection under the skin instead of through an IV. This approval applies to many types of cancer where Opdivo is already used.
The new injection can be used:
- By itself
- After completing a combination treatment with Opdivo and Yervoy
- Together with chemotherapy or another drug called cabozantinib
A study compared the injection to the IV version in patients with advanced kidney cancer. It found that:
- The injection worked just as well as the IV
- About 24% of patients responded to the injection, compared to 18% for the IV
- Side effects were similar for both
Common side effects included:
- Feeling tired
- Muscle or bone pain
- Itching
- Skin rash
- Cough
A new way of giving immunotherapy treatments could make cancer care easier and more convenient for patients. Instead of getting medicine through an IV, which can take 30-60 minutes, this new method uses a quick injection under the skin that only takes 3-5 minutes. Here’s how this could help you:
- Shorter treatment times: You might spend less time at the clinic for each treatment.
- More flexible treatment locations: You may be able to get your treatment outside of an infusion center.
- No need for an infusion port: This could mean fewer complications and less of a daily reminder of your cancer.
- More time for you: With quicker treatments, you’ll have more time for yourself and your loved ones.
For your healthcare team, this new method could:
- Reduce time spent preparing and giving treatments
- Allow them to see more patients
- Give them more time to focus on your care
This new approach aims to make cancer treatment less burdensome, giving you back more of your time and energy to focus on what matters most to you.
If you are currently receiving Opdivo, talk to your doctor about whether this new option might be right for you.
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Reference
George S, Bourion MT, Chacon MR, et al. Subcutaneous nivolumab (NIVO SC) vs intravenous nivolumab (NIVO IV) in patients with previously treated advanced or metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC): Pharmacokinetics (PK), efficacy, and safety results from CheckMate 67T. JCO. 2024;42. LBA360.
