Key facts about Atezolizumab
What dosages is Atezolizumab available in?
Atezolizumab is available as a single-dose vial in strengths of 840 mg/14 mL (60 mg/mL) and 1200 mg/20 mL (60 mg/mL).
What is Atezolizumab used for?
Atezolizumab is a PD-L1 inhibitor and is used for the following:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Early-stage cancer that’s had surgery and chemotherapy, given by itself
- Cancer that has spread (metastatic), given by itself or with chemotherapy
- Advanced small cell lung cancer (SCLC), given with chemotherapy
- Certain liver cancers that can’t be surgically removed or has spread, given with Avastin (bevacizumab)
- Advanced melanoma in people with a specific mutation, given with other targeted therapy
- Advanced alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS)
How does Atezolizumab work?
Atezolizumab is an immunotherapy medication known as a PD-L1 inhibitor. It blocks the PD-1 pathway, which helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. As a result, the immune system can kill the cancer cells and stop the cancer from growing.
How do I take Atezolizumab?
Atezolizumab is dosed as follows: This medication is given as an injection into the vein (IV) by a healthcare provider.
- Adults: For most cancers, there are a few dosing options your healthcare team will decide to use for your Atezolizumab treatment. Dosing options include 840 mg given every 2 weeks; 1,200 mg given every 3 weeks; or 1,680 mg given every 4 weeks. Which option your provider chooses will depend on your specific cancer diagnosis and whether you’re taking Atezolizumab with other anticancer medications
- Children 2 years and older (ASPS only): The dose is based on your child’s body weight. The typical dose is 15 mg/kg given every 3 weeks. Each dose can be up to a maximum of 1,200 mg
Is it safe for me to take Atezolizumab?
Atezolizumab is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Atezolizumab Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Atezolizumab:
- Low red blood cells
- Other abnormal lab test results
- Low white blood cells
- Tiredness
- Higher liver enzyme levels in blood
- Cough
- Lower appetite
- Trouble breathing
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
Atezolizumab Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Atezolizumab. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious immune-related side effects: rash, diarrhea, trouble breathing, chest pain, severe stomach pain, mucus or blood in stool
- Serious reaction during infusion: itching, trouble breathing, fast heart beat, feeling warm or hot
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Atezolizumab
- There are no major drug interactions listed for Atezolizumab. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking
Who makes Atezolizumab?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Atezolizumab safe in pregnancy?
Atezolizumab can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with Atezolizumab. Females who are able to become pregnant: Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with Atezolizumab. You should use an effective method of birth control during your treatment and for at least 5 months after the last dose of Atezolizumab.
