Key facts about Opdualag
What is Opdualag?
Opdualag is the brand name for nivolumab and relatlimab-rmbw and is available as an IV infusion.
What dosages is Opdualag available in?
Opdualag is available as 240 mg of nivolumab and 80 mg of relatlimab per 20 mL (12 mg and 4 mg per mL) in a single-dose vial.
What is Opdualag used for?
Opdualag is a PD-1 and LAG-3 inhibitor that is used to treat melanoma skin cancer that has spread or can’t be removed by surgery (people ages 12 years and older).
How does Opdualag work?
Opdualag is a combination medication that blocks both the PD-1 (nivolumab) and LAG3 (relatlimab) pathways. When these pathways are blocked, the immune system is activated to attack cancer cells. As a result, the immune system can kill cancer cells and stop cancer cells from growing.
How do I take Opdualag?
Opdualag is dosed as follows:
People ages 12 years and older (who weigh at least 40 kg):
- The typical dose of Opdualag is 480 mg of nivolumab and 160 mg of relatlimab every 4 weeks. It’s given as an intravenous (IV) infusion that includes both medications given at the same time.
Is it safe for me to take Opdualag?
Opdualag 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.
Opdualag Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Opdualag:
- Muscle pain
- Tiredness
- Lower red blood cell count
- Lower white blood cell count
- Higher liver enzymes in blood
- Rash
- Itching
- Diarrhea
- Lower sodium level in blood
Opdualag Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Opdualag. 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 Opdualag
There are no major drug interactions listed for Opdualag. 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 Opdualag?
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Is Opdualag safe in pregnancy?
Opdualag can harm your unborn baby. Females who are able to become pregnant: Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start receiving Opdualag. You should use an effective method of birth control during and for at least 5 months after the last dose of Opdualag. 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 during treatment with Opdualag.
