Key facts about Tremelimumab
What dosages is Tremelimumab available in?
Tremelimumab is available in the following:
25 mg/1.25 mL (20 mg/mL) solution in a single-dose vial.
300 mg/15 mL (20 mg/mL) solution in a single-dose vial.
What is Tremelimumab used for?
Tremelimumab is a CTLA-4 inhibitor that is used to treat the following:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) that can’t be removed with surgery, together with Imfinzi (durvalumab)
Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer without EGFR or ALK gene changes, together with Imfinzi (durvalumab) and platinum-based chemotherapy
How does Tremelimumab work?
Tremelimumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor (immunotherapy). More specifically, it’s an CTLA-4 inhibitor. By blocking CTLA-4, it helps the immune system detect and attack cancer cells.
How do I take Tremelimumab?
Your provider will determine your Tremelimumab treatment schedule based on the cancer type. You’ll also receive other medications, like Imfinzi (durvalumab) and/or chemotherapy, as part of your treatment plan, sometimes even on the days you’re not receiving Tremelimumab.
Liver cancer (adults who weigh 66 lbs or more): The typical dose is 300 mg infused through the veins (IV) on Day 1 of your first treatment cycle only.
NSCLC (adults who weigh 66 lbs or more): The typical dose is 75 mg infused through the veins (IV) for a maximum of 5 doses.
Cycles 1 to 4: Once every 3 weeks during the first 4 treatment cycles.
Cycle 5: No Tremelimumab infusion.
Cycle 6: Once on Day 1 of the 6th treatment cycle.
Your dose will be different if your body weight is less than 66 lbs.
Is it safe for me to take Tremelimumab?
Tremelimumab 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.
Tremelimumab Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Tremelimumab:
- Abnormal liver labs
- Lower blood cell counts
- Lower blood sodium levels
- Higher blood sugar
- Lower blood calcium levels
- Higher blood potassium levels
- Abnormal kidney labs
- Rash
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Itching
- Muscle, bone, or joint pain
Tremelimumab Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Tremelimumab. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
Immune-related adverse events: trouble breathing, cough, diarrhea, mucus or blood in the stool, stomach pain or cramps, rash
Infusion-related reactions: shortness of breath, itching, chills, flushing, upset stomach, or chest discomfort
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Tremelimumab
There are no major drug interactions listed for Tremelimumab. 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 Tremelimumab?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Tremelimumab safe in pregnancy?
Tremelimumab can harm your unborn baby. Females who are able to become pregnant:
Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with Tremelimumab.
You should use an effective method of birth control during your treatment and for 3 months after your last dose of Tremelimumab. 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 Tremelimumab.
