Nivolumab (Opdivo)

Nivolumab, sold under the brand name Opdivo, is an immunotherapy drug called a checkpoint inhibitor. It blocks a protein on immune cells called PD-1, which releases a brake on the immune system and helps it recognize and attack cancer cells. For mesothelioma, it is typically given together with another checkpoint inhibitor, ipilimumab (Yervoy), as an FDA-approved first-line treatment.

Origin

Developed by Ono Pharmaceutical and Bristol-Myers Squibb, nivolumab was first approved by the FDA in 2014 for melanoma. The name follows World Health Organization conventions for monoclonal antibodies: the "-mab" suffix means monoclonal antibody, and "-u-" indicates it is fully human. In October 2020, the FDA approved the nivolumab plus ipilimumab combination for unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma based on the CheckMate 743 trial.

Significance in Asbestos Context

Nivolumab, combined with ipilimumab, was the first major new first-line treatment approved for pleural mesothelioma in over 15 years. The CheckMate 743 trial showed it extended median overall survival to about 18 months compared to roughly 14 months with traditional chemotherapy (cisplatin/pemetrexed), and the benefit was especially pronounced in patients with non-epithelioid (sarcomatoid or biphasic) mesothelioma, who historically have had very limited options. For patients, this means immunotherapy is now a standard part of the conversation at diagnosis, and the cost of this treatment (which can exceed $200,000 per year) is often a significant component of the medical damages claimed in asbestos litigation.

Example Sentence

"After her biphasic mesothelioma diagnosis, her oncologist recommended starting nivolumab and ipilimumab rather than chemotherapy, and her attorney included the projected cost of this treatment in the damages calculation."

Related Terms

Immunotherapy, Checkpoint Inhibitor, Ipilimumab, Mesothelioma, CheckMate 743, Pemetrexed

Notes

• Ask your oncologist whether nivolumab plus ipilimumab is appropriate for your specific mesothelioma cell type (epithelioid, sarcomatoid, or biphasic). The survival benefit is largest in non-epithelioid disease.
• Watch for and immediately report immune-related side effects: persistent diarrhea, shortness of breath, new rash, fatigue, or symptoms suggesting thyroid, liver, or lung inflammation. These can become serious if not treated promptly with steroids.
• Keep detailed records of all infusions, billing statements, and out-of-pocket costs; these documents support both insurance appeals and the medical-expense portion of a legal claim.
• If cost is a barrier, ask the treatment center about the Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation and copay assistance programs.