Products
Cemiplimab was approved in the United States in 2018, in the EU in 2019, and in many countries in 2020 as a concentrate for the preparation of an infusion solution (Libtayo).
Structure and properties
Cemiplimab is a human IgG4 monoclonal antibody with a molecular mass of 146 kDa produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Cemiplimab has immunostimulatory and antitumor properties. It binds to the programmed cell death 1 receptor (PD-1) on T cells and inhibits interaction with the ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2, which are found on tumor cells and elsewhere. This enhances T cell function (proliferation, cytokine release, cytotoxic activity). The half-life is 19.2 days.
Indications
Metastatic or locally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include diarrhea, rash, pruritus, and fatigue.
