Opdivo (nivolumab) is a human monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2. Binding of the PD-1 ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, to the PD-1 receptor found on T cells, inhibits T-cell proliferation and cytokine production.
Opdivo is specifically indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic squamous nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy.
Opdivo is supplied as a solution for intravenous infusion. The recommended dose is 3 mg/kg administered as an intravenous infusion over 60 minutes every 2 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Please see the drug label for specific dose modifications.
Adverse effects associated with the use of Opdivo for advanced squamous non-small cell lung cancer may include, but are not limited to, the following:
fatigue
dyspnea
musculoskeletal pain
decreased appetite
cough
nausea
constipation