Standardized dose for Pembrolizumab.

[Manninmaid]

When I had my Pembrolizumab yesterday I was advised that there is a new protocol and the amount given is now a standardized dose rather than based on an individual’s weight. Presumably this has been determined on an average weight. In my case this meant I received more but presumably some larger people will be receiving less. The Oncology Team didn’t know the reason for the change in protocol and just wondering whether any of you know the reason for this change? Best wishes to all in the battle with this horrible disease.

[Elt79]

I've always had the same - 200mg every three weeks in our Trust so never been any change. Received infusions since last November.

[Manninmaid in reply to Elt79]

I googled and read that this is the standardized dose. My Oncologist is based in Clatterbridge but I receive my treatment on the Isle of Man so perhaps we are just catching up with arrangements elsewhere. Thank you for taking the time to respond and good luck with your treatment. 🌻

[Elt79 in reply to Manninmaid]

You too - has been positive so far CT after 4 infusions showed reduction in tumour in lung and stable adrenal gland, had 10th yesterday and awaiting further scan. Best of luck 😍

[Manninmaid in reply to Elt79]

Thank you. I have been on Pembrolizumab infusions since December 2017. Disease is stable at present. I only have the PDL1 expression at 5% so feel lucky to have responded positively so far. 😊

[Sam555]

I started pembro in January 17 and had 200mg for the whole 2 years.

[Manninmaid in reply to Sam555]

It must just be here that the amount has been being adjusted for weight. Weird! Hope you are continuing to do well post treatment. Best wishes 🌻

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear Manninmaid

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) have recommended that there is a standard dose of 200mg every 3 weeks.

bnf.nice.org.uk/drug/pembro...

A lung cancer research study showed that " that 2 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg were equally effective" hence the recommendation to have the standardised dose.

hematologyandoncology.net/a...

You may find this article interesting on approving the use for Pembrolizumab as 400mg every 6 weeks with the same tolerability and safety parameters, this is under the EU at the moment:

onclive.com/web-exclusives/...

Research is ongoing with Immunotherapies to improve the lives of those with lung cancer and hopefully have better outcomes.

It is wonderful that you have had a good response to this and may it continue.

If you wish to discuss anything our Freephone nurse led helpline number is 0800 358 7200

All the very best

The Roy Castle Support Team

[Manninmaid]

Thank you for your advice and these links. I am hugely impressed with the helpful and prompt input your Team make to this forum. Thank you again.