Keytruda (pembrolizumab) vs Opdualag (nivolumab & relatlimab)
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) vs Opdualag (nivolumab & relatlimab)
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is a monoclonal antibody that targets the PD-1 receptor on T cells, thereby enhancing the immune system's response against cancer cells; it is widely used for various types of cancer, including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and head and neck cancer. Opdualag is a combination of two immune checkpoint inhibitors, nivolumab (which also targets PD-1) and relatlimab (which targets LAG-3), potentially offering a broader immune response by disrupting two inhibitory pathways that cancer cells use to evade the immune system. When deciding between Keytruda and Opdualag, it is essential to consider the specific type of cancer, its stage, the patient's overall health, and the treatment's side effect profile, as well as to consult with a healthcare provider for a personalized recommendation based on the latest clinical evidence and guidelines.
Difference between Keytruda and Opdualag
| Metric | Keytruda (pembrolizumab) | Opdualag (nivolumab & relatlimab) |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Pembrolizumab | Nivolumab & Relatlimab |
| Indications | Various types of cancers including melanoma, lung cancer, head and neck cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, and others | Advanced melanoma |
| Mechanism of action | PD-1 blocking antibody | Nivolumab is a PD-1 blocking antibody; Relatlimab is a LAG-3 blocking antibody |
| Brand names | Keytruda | Opdualag |
| Administrative route | Injection (IV) | Injection (IV) |
| Side effects | Fatigue, nausea, itching, rash, decreased appetite, constipation, joint pain, cough | Fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, rash, pruritus, diarrhea, nausea, fever |
| Contraindications | Known hypersensitivity to pembrolizumab or any of its excipients | Known hypersensitivity to nivolumab, relatlimab, or any of their excipients |
| Drug class | Immune checkpoint inhibitor | Immune checkpoint inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Merck & Co. | Bristol Myers Squibb |
Efficacy
Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) Efficacy in Skin Cancer
Keytruda, generically known as pembrolizumab, is a highly effective immunotherapy drug used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including skin cancer. Specifically, it has shown significant efficacy in treating advanced melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Pembrolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking the PD-1 pathway, which cancer cells often exploit to avoid being detected and destroyed by the body's immune system. By inhibiting this pathway, Keytruda enables the immune system to better recognize and fight cancer cells.
In clinical trials, Keytruda has demonstrated a substantial improvement in overall survival rates for patients with advanced melanoma. It has also shown to delay the progression of the disease in many cases. The drug has been approved by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma. Its effectiveness has made it a standard of care for this condition, often used when the cancer cannot be removed by surgery or it has spread to other parts of the body.
Opdualag (Nivolumab & Relatlimab) Efficacy in Skin Cancer
Opdualag is a combination therapy that includes nivolumab and relatlimab, two immunotherapy drugs designed to treat skin cancer. Nivolumab is a PD-1 inhibitor, similar to pembrolizumab, and relatlimab is a LAG-3 blocking antibody. The combination of these two drugs aims to enhance the immune response against cancer cells by targeting two distinct immune checkpoints. This dual approach is intended to address the mechanisms by which cancer cells evade the immune system, potentially leading to improved outcomes for patients.
The efficacy of Opdualag in skin cancer, particularly advanced melanoma, has been evaluated in clinical trials. These studies have indicated that the combination therapy can lead to better response rates and progression-free survival compared to treatment with nivolumab alone. As a result, the FDA has granted approval for Opdualag as a treatment option for patients with advanced melanoma. The combination of nivolumab and relatlimab represents a novel approach in the management of skin cancer, providing a new therapeutic option for patients with this challenging condition.
Regulatory Agency Approvals
Keytruda
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
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Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
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Health Canada
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Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
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Medsafe (NZ)
Opdualag
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
-
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
Access Keytruda or Opdualag today
If Keytruda or Opdualag are not approved or available in your country (e.g. due to supply issues), you can access them via Everyone.org.
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