Opdualag (Nivolumab And Relatlimab)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Opdualag Used For?
Opdualag is a medication that combines two active ingredients, nivolumab and relatlimab, to help treat advanced melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.
Primary Uses
Opdualag is primarily used to treat advanced (unresectable or metastatic) melanoma in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older who weigh at least 40 kg.
How It Works
Nivolumab targets the programmed death 1 receptor (PD-1) and relatlimab targets the lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3). By blocking these proteins, Opdualag enhances T cell activity against melanoma cells.
Good to know: Opdualag is not addictive.
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How to Take Opdualag
Opdualag is administered as an intravenous infusion in a hospital or clinic setting under professional supervision.
Dosage Instructions
The recommended dose for adults and adolescents (12 years and older, weighing at least 40 kg) is 480 mg of nivolumab and 160 mg of relatlimab, given every 4 weeks as an infusion over 30 minutes.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss an appointment for your infusion, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule.
Important: Never double the dose if you miss an appointment.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- decreased appetite
- nausea
- stomach pain
- constipation
- itching
- skin color changes
- muscle and joint pain
- fatigue
- fever
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- lung inflammation (pneumonitis)
- intestinal inflammation (colitis)
- liver inflammation (hepatitis)
- kidney problems
- hormonal gland issues
- severe skin reactions
- heart inflammation (myocarditis)
- serious allergic reactions
Impulse Control Issues
There may be an increased risk of impulse control issues, including gambling and spending problems.
Important Warnings
There are important safety considerations to be aware of when using Opdualag.
Who Should Not Take Opdualag
Do not use Opdualag if you are allergic to nivolumab, relatlimab, or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of autoimmune diseases, lung inflammation, or if you are taking medications that suppress your immune system with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Opdualag should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically advised by a doctor. It is unknown if it passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, especially those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as some may interact with Opdualag.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Opdualag works.
- corticosteroids
- other immunosuppressive medications
Alcohol & Driving
Use caution with alcohol and when driving while on Opdualag, as it may affect your ability to perform these activities safely.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Opdualag.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Opdualag affects you.
Storage
Opdualag will be stored in a hospital or clinic, and you are unlikely to need to store it yourself.
Overdose Information
In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Do not attempt to treat symptoms on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Opdualag to show effects can vary by individual. Consult your doctor for more specific information.
There are no specific dietary restrictions mentioned for Opdualag, but consult your doctor for personalized advice.
No, Opdualag is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Opdualag, as sudden discontinuation may lead to adverse effects.
It's best to consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Opdualag.
Weight changes can occur, but consult your doctor for more information regarding your specific situation.
Elderly patients should use Opdualag with caution, especially those with dementia.
Contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule your infusion appointment.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.