Description

Opdivo (Nivolumab) Injection – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Availability in Pakistan

Opdivo (Nivolumab) is a breakthrough cancer immunotherapy developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb. It is classified as a PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor and is used for the treatment of multiple cancers including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), renal cell carcinoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, urothelial carcinoma, head & neck squamous cell carcinoma, and colorectal cancer with specific biomarkers.

In Pakistan, Opdivo is available as an imported injection in multiple vial strengths, including:

• 40 mg/4 mL

• 100 mg/10 mL

• 120 mg/12 mL

• 240 mg/24 mL (10 mg/mL concentration)

---

Opdivo Key Benefits

• Enhanced Immune Response: Blocks the PD-1 receptor on T-cells, restoring their ability to detect and destroy cancer cells.

• Versatile Treatment: Can be used alone or in combination with other therapies like ipilimumab (Yervoy) or chemotherapy.

• Improved Survival Rates: Clinical trials show significant survival benefits over standard chemotherapy in advanced cancers.

• Durable Results: Patients may continue to benefit even after treatment stops due to long-lasting immune activation.

• Adjuvant Therapy: Helps reduce the risk of cancer recurrence after surgery in certain cancers.

---

Opdivo Indications

Opdivo is prescribed for:

• Unresectable or metastatic melanoma

• Advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

• Advanced renal cell carcinoma

• Classical Hodgkin lymphoma

• Urothelial carcinoma

• Head & neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)

• Colorectal cancer with MSI-H/dMMR biomarkers

---

Dosage & Administration

Opdivo is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion over 30 minutes under medical supervision.

• Adults: 240 mg every 2 weeks OR 480 mg every 4 weeks.

• Pediatrics (≥12 years, <40 kg): 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks.

• Combination Therapy (with Ipilimumab): 1 mg/kg of Opdivo every 3 weeks (up to 4 doses), then continue with 240 mg every 2 weeks or 480 mg every 4 weeks.

⚠️ Dosage may vary depending on cancer type, disease stage, and patient response. Always follow your oncologist’s prescription.

---

Side Effects & Safety Information

Like all immunotherapies, Opdivo may cause immune-related side effects, where the immune system attacks healthy organs. Common side effects include:

• Pneumonitis: Lung inflammation causing cough or breathing difficulty.

• Colitis: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, or intestinal inflammation.

• Hepatitis: Elevated liver enzymes, jaundice.

• Endocrine disorders: Thyroid dysfunction (hyper/hypothyroidism), adrenal insufficiency.

Patients on Opdivo require regular blood tests to monitor liver, kidney, and thyroid function.

Contraindications:

• Active autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, Crohn’s disease)

• Severe hypersensitivity to nivolumab

• Not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women

---

Storage Instructions

• Store in a refrigerator at 2°C – 8°C (36°F – 46°F).

• Keep in the original carton, protected from light.

• Do not freeze.

• Once diluted, use immediately or within 24 hours at room temperature.

---

Nutrition & Lifestyle Advice During Opdivo Therapy

• Avoid alcohol, as it may worsen liver side effects.

• Limit acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus, vinegar) if experiencing stomach irritation.

• Eat soft, high-protein foods (fish, eggs, beans, dairy) to support immune health.

• Stay well-hydrated throughout treatment.

• Consult a dietitian for personalized nutritional guidance.

---

Why Choose Opdivo (Nivolumab)?

Opdivo represents a revolutionary approach to cancer treatment, harnessing the body’s own immune system to fight tumors. With its proven efficacy, durable responses, and broad range of indications, it has become a leading choice for oncologists worldwide.