Key facts about Ipilimumab
What dosages is Ipilimumab available in?
Ipilimumab is available as 50 mg/10 mL (5 mg/mL) and 200 mg/40 mL (5 mg/mL) in a single-dose vial.
What is Ipilimumab used for?
Ipilimumab is a CTLA-4 inhibitor that is used to treat:
- Advanced or metastatic melanoma; by itself or with Opdivo (nivolumab)
- Melanoma that’s been removed by surgery; by itself
Advanced renal cell carcinoma; with Opdivo (nivolumab) - Metastatic colorectal cancer after previous treatment with chemotherapy; with Opdivo (nivolumab)
- Advanced liver cancer that was previously treated with
- Nexavar (sorafenib); with Opdivo (nivolumab)
- Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in people with PD-L1 expression; with Opdivo (nivolumab) and with or without additional chemotherapy
- Advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma; with Opdivo (nivolumab)
- Advanced or metastatic esophageal cancer; with Opdivo (nivolumab)
How does Ipilimumab work?
Ipilimumab is an immunotherapy medication that blocks the CTLA-4 pathway; it’s known as a CTLA-4 inhibitor. By blocking this pathway, the medication 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 Ipilimumab?
Your provider will calculate your dose based on your body weight in kilograms. Your Ipilimumab dose will vary depending on the type of cancer that’s getting treated and the other medications in your treatment plan, such as Opdivo (nivolumab) or other chemotherapy. In general, Ipilimumab is given as an infusion through the vein (IV) at an infusion center or a provider’s office.When Ipilimumab is used by itself: The typical dose is either 3 mg/kg given IV every 3 weeks for 4 doses only; or 10 mg/kg given IV every 3 weeks for the first 4 doses, then every 12 weeks for up to 3 years. When Ipilimumab is given together with Opdivo (nivolumab): A common dose for Ipilimumab is 1 mg/kg given IV either every 3 or every 6 weeks. Another common dose is 3 mg/kg given IV every 3 weeks.
Is it safe for me to take Ipilimumab?
Ipilimumab 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.
Ipilimumab Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Ipilimumab when used by itself:
- Tiredness
- Rash
- Diarrhea
- Higher liver enzyme levels
- Itching
- Anemia
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Weight loss
- Nausea
- Lower white blood cells
- Changes in blood sugar levels
- Lower appetite
- Cough
Ipilimumab Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Ipilimumab. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious immune-related side effects: rash, diarrhea, trouble breathing, severe stomach pain, chest pain
- 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 Ipilimumab
There are no major drug interactions listed for Ipilimumab. 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 Ipilimumab?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Ipilimumab safe in pregnancy?
Ipilimumab can harm your unborn baby.
Females who are able to become pregnant: Your healthcare provider will give you a pregnancy test before you start treatment with Ipilimumab You should use an effective method of birth control during treatment and for 3 months after your last dose of Ipilimumab. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control methods that you can use during this time Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with Ipilimumab. You or your healthcare provider should contact Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1-844-593-7869 as soon as you become aware of a pregnancy.













