Products
Ipilimumab is commercially available as a concentrate for the preparation of an infusion solution (Yervoy). It has been approved in many countries since 2011.
Structure and properties
Ipilimumab is a recombinant, humanized monoclonal antibody with an approximate molecular weight of 148 kDa. It is an IgG1-kappa immunoglobulin (IgG1κ).
Effects
Ipilimumab (ATC L01XC11) has indirect cytotoxic and antitumor properties. The effects are due to binding to CTLA-4 (cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4) on T lymphocytes, an inhibitor of T-cell activation, which subsequently can no longer interact with its receptor. Inhibition of CTLA-4 promotes the T-cell-mediated immune response, meaning that T cells are activated, proliferate, and attack tumor cells.
Indications
As a second-line agent for the treatment of advanced melanoma in adults.
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 anticoagulants.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include injection site reactions, rash, pruritus, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, poor appetite, fatigue, and fever.
