Bavencio

Bavencio is a type of immunotherapy used to treat certain advanced or metastatic cancers. These include Merkel cell carcinoma (a rare and aggressive skin cancer), urothelial carcinoma (a type of bladder cancer), and advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer), when used in combination with axitinib. It works by helping your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively, especially those that try to “hide” by expressing a protein called PD-L1.

Benefits

• Activates the immune system to fight cancer by targeting the PD-L1 protein.
• Provides a treatment option for cancers with limited alternatives.
• Can improve progression-free survival in some patients.
• May be better tolerated than chemotherapy in certain cases.
• Offers durable responses in some advanced or rare cancers.

Dosage

• Usual dose: 800 mg IV infusion every 2 weeks.
• Each infusion typically takes about 60 minutes and is performed in a clinical or hospital setting.
• Dosing schedule and duration of treatment may vary depending on cancer type, treatment response, and tolerance to side effects.
• In advanced kidney cancer, it is used in combination with axitinib.

Warnings and Precautions

• Can cause immune system-related side effects affecting organs like lungs, liver, or intestines.
• Requires regular monitoring with blood tests and clinical evaluations.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Patients with autoimmune conditions should consult their healthcare provider.
• Infusion reactions may occur — medical teams monitor closely during treatment.

Usage Instructions

• Administered by healthcare professionals in a clinic or hospital.
• Keep all scheduled appointments for infusions and follow-up tests.
• Inform your doctor of any new symptoms such as cough, rash, diarrhea, or fatigue.
• Do not stop treatment without your doctor’s advice, even if you feel better.
• Any unused portions must be discarded — it should not be reused.
• Always ensure strict adherence to proper aseptic techniques and manufacturer guidelines during preparation and handling.

Storage Information

• Bavencio must be stored and handled by qualified healthcare professionals in a clinical setting.
• The vials should be kept in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
• Do not freeze the medication, and do not shake the vials.
• Once prepared (diluted) for infusion, the solution should be used immediately, or stored at room temperature for up to 4 hours, or refrigerated (2°C to 8°C) for up to 24 hours before administration.

Common Side Effects

• Mild to moderate effects: fatigue, fever, nausea, decreased appetite, chills, joint pain, and mild infusion reactions.
• Serious (seek medical attention): lung inflammation (new or worsening cough), liver problems (yellow skin or dark urine), severe diarrhea, hormonal issues, or severe rash.