Products
Durvalumab was approved as an infusion product in the United States in 2017 and in many countries and the EU in 2018 (Imfinzi).
Structure and properties
Durvalumab is a human IgG1κ monoclonal antibody. It is produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Durvalumab (ATC L01XC28) has selective immunostimulatory and antitumor properties. The effects are due to binding to PD-L1, programmed cell death ligand 1. PD-L1 blocks T-cell function, activation, proliferation, and cytokine production by interacting with PD-1 and CD80. Tumors express the ligand on the cell surface, protecting themselves from the body’s defenses. Binding reverses this inhibition. It is a cancer immunotherapy that prolongs progression-free survival. Durvalumab has a long half-life of about 18 days.
Indications
For the treatment of patients with locally advanced, unresectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose disease has not progressed after definitive platinum-based chemoradiotherapy. In some countries, also for the treatment of urothelial carcinoma.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include upper respiratory tract infection, cough, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash, pruritus, fever, and peripheral edema.
