Products
Avelumab was approved in the United States, the EU, and many countries in 2017 as a concentrate for the preparation of an infusion solution (Bavencio).
Structure and properties
Avelumab is a human IgG1λ monoclonal antibody against programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) with a molecular weight of 147 kDa. It is produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Avelumab has immunostimulatory, antitumor, and cytotoxic properties. The antibody binds to programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1). It thereby inhibits the interaction between PD-L1 and the receptors PD-1 and B7.1, abolishing the inhibitory effect of PD-L1 on T cells. Cytotoxic T cells, T cell proliferation and cytokine production are stimulated. Avelumab has a half-life of approximately 6 days. PD-L1 is expressed on tumor cells and/or tumor-infiltrating immune cells and inhibits the immune response. It is a cancer immunotherapy in which the drug does not directly attack the cancer cells but stimulates the body’s own immune system. However, in vitro, avelumab has additionally been shown to mediate direct tumor cell lysis via antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC).
Indications
For the treatment of patients with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Other indications (not all countries): urothelial carcinoma, gastric cancer.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
Avelumab is contraindicated in the presence of hypersensitivity. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse Effects
The most common potential adverse effects include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, constipation, infusion-related reactions, weight loss, and vomiting.
