Are we over-treating with checkpoint inhibitors?

Br J Cancer. 2019 Oct;121(8):629-630. doi: 10.1038/s41416-019-0570-y. Epub 2019 Sep 17.

Abstract

Anti-PD-1 antibodies offer potentially life-saving treatment for some cancer patients, but their chronic administration generates high and ever-increasing costs. Despite licensing for long-term use, optimal treatment duration is unknown. We challenge the need for long-term treatment duration, using evidence from melanoma research, both published and in process.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / administration & dosage*
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological / administration & dosage*
  • Duration of Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Ipilimumab / administration & dosage
  • Melanoma / drug therapy*
  • Melanoma / secondary
  • Nivolumab / administration & dosage*
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological
  • Ipilimumab
  • PDCD1 protein, human
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor
  • Nivolumab
  • pembrolizumab