Ono Pharmaceutical Information: Opdivo for Lung Cancer

On December 17, 2015, Ono Pharmaceutical issued a press release announcing the approval of Opdivo (nivolumab) for patients with unresectable advanced or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This drug is capable of inhibiting cancer cells; however, for patients where effectiveness is uncertain, both cost and safety remain significant considerations.

Below is some information from clinical trials conducted overseas:

CheckMate-017

Compared to standard treatment (docetaxel), the risk of death was reduced by 41%. The median overall survival was 9.2 months in the Opdivo group compared to 6 months in the docetaxel group. The one-year survival rate was 42% in the Opdivo group versus 24% in the docetaxel group. Data from trials such as CheckMate-057, ONO-4538-05, and ONO-4538-06 have also been made public.

While this drug is highly anticipated, several points warrant attention, such as the fact that the mechanism determining who will respond is not yet fully understood. Additionally, regarding cost, for a patient weighing 60 kg, the medical expense is approximately 3 million yen per month.

Medical Supporter was formerly certified as an international medical visa guarantor by Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (B-066).

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Related Cancer Information

• Lung cancer