Opdyta contains nivolumab, an advanced immunotherapy drug classified as a PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor. It is administered as an intravenous infusion and is used in the treatment of various cancers. Nivolumab works by harnessing the body’s own immune system to recognise and destroy cancer cells. It represents a major step forward in personalised oncology care, offering a chance for durable responses in cancers that were once difficult to treat.

Mechanism of Action
Nivolumab targets the programmed death-1 (PD-1) receptor found on the surface of T-cells, a type of white blood cell involved in immune defence. Normally, cancer cells can bind to this receptor using ligands like PD-L1, which helps them escape detection by the immune system. Nivolumab blocks this interaction, effectively lifting the “brakes” on the immune system. This reactivates T-cells, allowing them to identify and destroy tumour cells more effectively.

Uses
Opdyta is approved for use in a wide range of cancers. These include non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, classical Hodgkin lymphoma, bladder cancer, and some colorectal cancers with specific genetic markers. It is used both alone and in combination with other treatments like ipilimumab, depending on the cancer type and stage. Its flexibility across tumour types makes it a key part of modern cancer therapy protocols.

Adverse Effects
As an immune-based therapy, nivolumab can trigger immune-related side effects. These may affect various organs, leading to inflammation in the lungs, liver, intestines, thyroid, or adrenal glands. Common side effects include fatigue, skin rash, joint pain, decreased appetite, and diarrhoea. While most are manageable, some immune-related reactions can be serious or life-threatening and require prompt treatment with steroids or discontinuation of the drug. Regular monitoring helps detect issues early and maintain safety during treatment.