Atezolizumab

What it is and how it works

Atezolizumab is a humanised IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), blocking its interaction with PD-1 and B7.1 receptors. This releases PD-L1/PD-1 mediated inhibition of the anti-tumour T-cell response.

Indications

Selected patients with urothelial carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer (adjuvant, first-line and later lines), extensive-stage small cell lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and triple-negative breast cancer, according to approved criteria (including PD-L1 expression where required).

Dosage and administration (summary)

Intravenous infusion of 840 mg every 2 weeks, 1200 mg every 3 weeks or 1680 mg every 4 weeks, alone or in combination per indication, until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to atezolizumab or excipients.

Warnings and precautions

Immune-related adverse reactions may affect any organ, including pneumonitis, hepatitis, colitis, endocrinopathies (thyroid, adrenal, pituitary, type 1 diabetes), nephritis, myocarditis and skin reactions; manage by withholding treatment and giving corticosteroids. Infusion-related reactions may occur. Monitor liver, renal and thyroid function and blood glucose.

Pregnancy

Avoid in pregnancy because PD-L1 blockade may cause fetal harm; effective contraception is required during and for 5 months after treatment.

Storage and supply

Store at 2–8 °C refrigerated; do not freeze; protect from light.

Source: reference summary prepared from the EU SmPC/EPAR, BNF and WHO Model Formulary. The approved product information in Iran governs.