Information for the public
Nivolumab (Opdivo) is available on the NHS. It is a possible treatment for locally advanced or metastatic squamous non-small-cell lung cancer in adults after chemotherapy if:
- it is stopped at 2 years of uninterrupted treatment, or earlier if your disease progresses and
- you have not had a PD‑1 or PD‑L1 inhibitor before.
If you are not eligible for nivolumab but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your doctor decide when best to stop.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS website may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, 0333 323 7200
- British Lung Foundation, 03000 030 555
- Cancer Research UK, 0808 800 4040
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-3886-5
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