Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Yervoy (ipilimumab) is a prescription immunotherapy medication made by Bristol Myers Squibb. It is a fully human monoclonal antibody that belongs to a class of drugs called immune checkpoint inhibitors. Yervoy is FDA-approved to treat several types of cancer, including unresectable or metastatic melanoma, advanced renal cell carcinoma, metastatic colorectal cancer with specific biomarkers (MSI-H/dMMR), hepatocellular carcinoma, metastatic non-small cell lung cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma, and advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. It is often used in combination with nivolumab (Opdivo) for enhanced effectiveness.
Yervoy works by blocking a protein called CTLA-4 (cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4) on the surface of T cells. Normally, CTLA-4 acts as a brake on the immune system, preventing T cells from becoming too active. By blocking this checkpoint, Yervoy releases the brakes and allows T cells to activate, multiply, and attack cancer cells more effectively. This mechanism makes the body's own immune system a powerful weapon against tumors.
Dosing is weight-based, typically 1 mg/kg to 3 mg/kg administered intravenously depending on the indication and whether it is used as monotherapy or in combination with nivolumab (Opdivo).
Yervoy scores a 45 out of 100 on our findability scale, meaning it can be moderately difficult to locate. As a specialty biologic administered via IV infusion in healthcare settings, Yervoy is not stocked at standard retail pharmacies. It is typically dispensed through specialty pharmacies, hospital outpatient infusion centers, and oncology clinics. While there is no active FDA-reported shortage, supply chain disruptions and high demand can cause localized access delays. Using Medfinder can help you quickly identify facilities that have Yervoy available.
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Yervoy is prescribed by specialists who treat cancer, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, and hematology-oncologists. Depending on the type of cancer being treated, dermatologists specializing in melanoma, pulmonologists treating mesothelioma, and gastroenterologists treating hepatocellular carcinoma or colorectal cancer may also prescribe it. Because Yervoy is an IV infusion medication, it must be administered in a healthcare setting such as a hospital or infusion center.
No, Yervoy is not a controlled substance. It does not have a DEA schedule classification and has no known potential for abuse or dependence. However, it is only available by prescription and must be administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
Yervoy carries a boxed warning for severe and potentially fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions, including colitis, hepatitis, dermatitis, neuropathy, and endocrinopathy. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor immediately.
Talk to your oncologist about which treatment option is best for your specific cancer type and stage.
Always inform your oncology team about all medications, supplements, and vaccines you are taking or plan to take.
Yervoy is a groundbreaking immunotherapy that has transformed the treatment of advanced melanoma and several other cancers. While it can be life-saving, it comes with significant costs and potential side effects that require careful monitoring. If you're having trouble finding Yervoy in stock, Medfinder can help you locate a specialty pharmacy or infusion center near you that carries it. Bristol Myers Squibb also offers patient assistance and co-pay programs that can significantly reduce the financial burden. Talk to your oncologist and explore all available resources to ensure you can access this important treatment.
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