durvalumab

Also known as « Imfinzi », Durvalumab was approved by FDA to treat a certain type of lung cancer called NSCLC (i.e. non-small cell lung cancer). This treatment is used when NSCLC has already spread within the patient’s lungs and cannot be removed through surgical means. It is also used when NSCLC “has responded or stabilized after initial treatment with chemotherapy and radiotherapy”. Bear in mind that this monoclonal antibody works by stimulating the immune system to destroy cancer cells. According to chemocare.com, the common side effects of Durvalumab include fatigue, infection, nausea, swelling, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. There are also other side effects that are deemed rare, albeit more serious such as hepatitis, Colitis, kidney problems, and severe muscle weakness. You must, of course, contact your healthcare provider immediately if you have any of these symptoms whether during your treatment or after stopping it. It is worth noting that you should not take Durvalumab if you are pregnant, or if you’re planning a pregnancy, considering this drug may cause fetal harm. Breastfeeding while taking Durvalumab is also not recommended. In fact, it is preferable that you wait for at least three months after your last dose before you start breastfeeding.