Pembrolizumab

Products

Pembrolizumab was approved as an infusion product in the United States in 2014 and in the EU and many countries in 2015 (Keytruda).

Structure and properties

Pembrolizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody. It is an IgG4-κ immunoglobulin with a molecular weight of approximately 149 kDa.

Effects

Pembrolizumab (ATC L01XC18) has antitumor and immunomodulatory properties. It blocks the binding of the PD-L1 and PD-L2 ligands to the PD-1 receptor on T cells. The antibody binds to the PD-1 receptor. This stimulates T-cell proliferation, cytokine generation and immune response against cancer cells. The half-life is 26 days.

Indications

  • As a second-line agent for the treatment of non-resectable or metastatic melanoma.
  • Lung cancer (NSCLC, not approved in all countries).
  • Other cancers

Dosage

According to the professional information. The drug is administered every three weeks as an intravenous infusion.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Drug-drug interactions are possible with immunosuppressants. They may reduce the effectiveness of pembrolizumab.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include fatigue, cough, nausea, itching, rash, lack of appetite, constipation, joint pain, and diarrhea.