Opdivo
Opdivo Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Opdivo is a brand name. Its generic name is Nivolumab.
Introduction
Opdivo is a monoclonal antibody that works by targeting the PD-1 pathway that is responsible for regulating the body’s immune response. It is used to treat several types of cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, renal cell cancer, and Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Uses
Opdivo is used for treating certain types of metastatic cancer, including certain types of melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and Hodgkin lymphoma. It is also used for treating certain types of bladder cancer, colorectal cancer, and renal cell cancer.
Mechanism of Action
Opdivo works by targeting the PD-1 pathway, a part of the body’s immune system. It enhances the body’s ability to fight cancer cells by blocking the PD-1 receptor on T-cells. This helps activate the T-cells and enhances their ability to fight cancer.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
The effects of nivolumab can start to appear within a few weeks of treatment. However, it can take several weeks or months for the full effects to be seen. The response rate to nivolumab varies from person to person.
Absorption
Opdivo is rapidly absorbed and peaks in the serum within 24-48 hours following administration. The absorption rate of nivolumab is not affected by the route of administration.
Route of Elimination
Opdivo is mainly cleared via the hepato-biliary route. The majority of nivolumab is bound to albumin and is eliminated in the bile as an inactive conjugate. Minor amounts are excreted in the urine.
Dosage
Opdivo is administered as a single intravenous dose of 240 mg every 2 weeks. In some cases, a higher dose may be used. The duration of treatment depends on the type of cancer being treated and the patient’s response to treatment.
Administration
Opdivo is administered intravenously (IV) in a hospital setting. The dose is usually given after diluting it in a 0.9% sodium chloride solution. The infusion should not exceed 2 hours. It is important to closely monitor the patient during the infusion for any adverse reactions.
Side Effects
Common side effects of nivolumab include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, rash, and fever. Other less common side effects may include liver problems, swelling of the hands and feet, increased blood pressure, and cough.
Toxicity
Opdivo is generally well tolerated and is associated with a low incidence of serious adverse events. The most commonly reported serious adverse effects include immune-related events such as pneumonitis and colitis.
Precautions
Before starting treatment with nivolumab, it is important to inform your doctor of any other medications or supplements that you are taking. It is also important to inform your doctor if you have any allergies or a history of liver or kidney disease.
Interactions
Opdivo may interact with other medications, including chemotherapy drugs, immunosuppressants, and corticosteroids. It is important to inform your doctor of any medication or herbal supplement that you are taking before starting treatment with nivolumab.
Disease Interactions
Opdivo may interact with certain diseases, including infections and viral infections. It is important to inform your doctor of any medical condition that you have before starting treatment.
Drug Interactions
Opdivo may interact with other drugs, including medication used to treat heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, and infections. It is important to inform your doctor of any other medications or supplements that you are taking before starting treatment.
Food Interactions
Opdivo may interact with certain food items, so it is important to discuss any dietary restrictions or food allergies that you have before starting treatment.
Pregnancy Use
Opdivo is classified as a pregnancy category D drug, which means that there is evidence that it may cause harm to a developing fetus. It should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
Lactation Use
Opdivo should not be used during lactation. If you are breastfeeding, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor before starting treatment.
Acute Overdose
There is no known antidote for an acute overdose of nivolumab. If an overdose is suspected, the patient should be monitored closely and supportive care should be provided as needed.
Contraindications
Opdivo should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also not be used in combination with other PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitors or with live vaccines.
Use Directions
Opdivo should be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. The drug should be given as an intravenous infusion after diluting it in 0.9% sodium chloride solution. The infusion should not exceed 2 hours.
Storage Condition
Opdivo should be stored at room temperature in a dry place. It should be kept away from heat and direct sunlight. It should also be stored away from children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of nivolumab is 6.5 ± 3.2 L.
Half Life
The half-life of nivolumab is approximately 20 days.
Clearance
The clearance of nivolumab is 0.20 ± 0.071L/day.
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