Nivolumab

Uses

Nivolumab is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, kidney cancer, head and neck cancer, melanoma, Hodgkin's disease, and liver cancer.

How it Works

How Nivolumab works Nivolumab is an anti-cancer medication that functions by blocking a protein known as PD-1 on the surface of specific immune cells called T-cells. This action activates the T-cells, enabling them to identify and destroy cancer cells.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Nivolumab include musculoskeletal pain (bone, muscle, or joint), upper respiratory tract infection, fever, pneumonia, bronchitis (inflammation of the airways), infusion site reaction, hypersensitivity, decreased levels of thyroid hormones, hyperthyroidism, inflammation of the thyroid gland, increased blood glucose levels, hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level), peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness in the feet and hands), cardiac disturbances, gastrointestinal disturbances, colitis, stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), joint pain, fatigue, edema (swelling), chest pain, increased aspartate aminotransferase, low albumin levels in the blood, increased alkaline phosphatase levels in the blood, decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), low blood platelets, and electrolyte imbalance.

Expert Advice

Nivolumab is administered as an injection or infusion under the supervision of a doctor only.
Do not skip any doses and complete the course as recommended by your doctor.
Use an effective method of birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication.
Your doctor may conduct regular blood tests to monitor your blood cell count (CBC), electrolyte levels, and liver and kidney function.
Inform your doctor if you experience fever, chills, rash, or shortness of breath during treatment.