atezolizumab

Sold under Tecentriq, Atezolizumab is indicated for the treatment of certain cancers, namely cancers of the lung, breast or urinary tract. This treatment is also used when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, or when removing it surgically becomes impossible. Basically, Atezolizumab works by blocking the activity of programmed PDL-1, which is a molecule that halts immune activity. By blocking it, “the immune response is stimulated to find and kill cancer cells”.(quoted from .oncolink.org) It is worth noting that Atezolizumab affects the immune system in a way that may cause it to attack normal healthy tissues or organs, which will eventually lead to life-threatening medical issues. When it comes to the side effects, drugs.com states that Atezolizumab can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling in the ankles, liver problems, and signs of infections, among others. As for the side effects that can urge the patient to delay his/her treatment, they include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache and constipation. Remember that you should not use Atezolizumab if you are pregnant, considering it could harm your unborn baby. Therefore, using effective birth control during the treatment is recommended. In case you wonder how this medication is given, drugs.com explains that “Atezolizumab is given as an infusion into a vein, usually once every 2 to 4 weeks.”