Dosage Information for Opdivo: Forms, Strengths, Administration, and Additional Details
In the realm of cancer treatment, Opdivo (nivolumab) has emerged as a significant player. This immunotherapy drug is known for its ability to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells, but like many medications, it comes with potential side effects.
For adults, common adverse reactions include fatigue, rash or itchy skin, cough, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, muscle or joint pain, loss of appetite, fever, and infusion-related reactions such as chills and fever [1][3][5]. More serious, albeit rare, immune-mediated side effects can affect various organs, such as the lungs, liver, kidneys, intestines, and heart. Symptoms of these can include muscle weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and severe fatigue [1][3][5]. Other documented side effects include peripheral neuropathy (tingling or numbness), hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism [1][3].
When it comes to children, specific clinical safety data is limited. However, given that Opdivo's side effects are primarily due to its immune system activation, similar types of side effects are expected, though the frequency and severity can differ [1][3]. Detailed pediatric side effect profiles should be assessed on a case-by-case basis by healthcare providers.
Opdivo is used in various cancer treatments. For esophageal cancer or stomach cancer, it may be given on its own or in combination with chemotherapy. In the treatment of liver cancer, Opdivo is given in combination with ipilimumab (Yervoy) [1].
The drug information provided here is subject to change and should not be considered exhaustive. It does not cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the dosage of Opdivo that's right for you, it's crucial to consult your doctor.
The dosage for colorectal cancer can vary, with some patients receiving 240 mg every 2 weeks or 480 mg every 4 weeks, while others may be given the drug in combination with other medications. For certain types of colorectal cancer and melanoma, Opdivo is approved for use in children aged 12 years and older, with the dosage depending on the child's weight [1].
For head and neck cancer, the recommended dosage is 240 mg every 2 weeks or 480 mg every 4 weeks. In the case of bladder cancer, the recommended dosage is 240 mg every 2 weeks or 480 mg every 4 weeks as well [1].
Opdivo is administered as a solution given as an IV infusion by a healthcare professional. It's important to note that Opdivo should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication.
- Opdivo (nivolumab) is used in the treatment of esophageal cancer or stomach cancer, sometimes given on its own and other times in combination with chemotherapy.
- In the realm of medical-conditions, Opdivo has shown effectiveness against various cancers such as melanoma, colorectal cancer, and head and neck cancer.
- Other types of cancer Opdivo is approved for use in, even in children aged 12 years and older, include certain types of colorectal cancer and melanoma.
- For bladder cancer patients, the recommended dosage for Opdivo is 240 mg every 2 weeks or 480 mg every 4 weeks, the same as for head and neck cancer.
- In the case of liver cancer, Opdivo is given in combination with another drug, ipilimumab (Yervoy), to increase its effectiveness.
- It's important to be aware that stomach cancer, esophageal cancer, kidney cancer, and other lymphomas, as well as health-and-wellness complications like lung cancer, may also be addressed with Opdivo as part of an extensive range of cancer treatments.
