Durvalumab is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer. Let's break it down in simple terms:
**What is Durvalumab?**
Durvalumab is a type of medication known as a monoclonal antibody. It's designed to help the body's immune system fight cancer cells.**How does Durvalumab work?**
Our immune system has special cells called T-cells that help fight off infections and diseases, including cancer. However, cancer cells can sometimes hide from the immune system. Durvalumab works by blocking a protein called PD-L1 on cancer cells. This protein helps cancer cells hide from the immune system. By blocking PD-L1, Durvalumab helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.**Uses of Durvalumab:**
Durvalumab is used to treat several types of cancer, including:
- Non-small cell lung cancer: Durvalumab may be used to treat this type of lung cancer in certain situations, such as after chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
- Bladder cancer: Durvalumab may be used to treat advanced bladder cancer that has spread or come back after previous treatment.
- Other cancers: Durvalumab is also being studied as a treatment for other types of cancer, including head and neck cancer, liver cancer, and ovarian cancer.**How is Durvalumab given?**
Durvalumab is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, which means it's administered directly into the bloodstream through a vein. The infusion is typically given in a hospital or clinic setting by a healthcare professional. The treatment schedule and dosage may vary depending on the type of cancer being treated and how well the patient responds to the medication.**Side Effects of Durvalumab:**
Like all medications, Durvalumab can cause side effects. Some common side effects may include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Rash or itchingMore serious side effects can occur, including:
- Immune-related side effects: Durvalumab works by activating the immune system, which can sometimes lead to the immune system attacking healthy tissues and organs. This can cause problems in the lungs, liver, intestines, hormone glands, or other parts of the body.**Precautions:**
Before starting Durvalumab treatment, it's essential to inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have autoimmune disorders or are taking other medications that suppress the immune system. Additionally, let your doctor know about all medications and supplements you're taking, as some may interact with Durvalumab.In summary, Durvalumab is a monoclonal antibody used to treat certain types of cancer by helping the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. While it can be effective in fighting cancer, it can also cause side effects, so it's essential to discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist
Durvalumab
Think of Durvalumab as a superhero booster for your immune system. Here's how it works:
1. **Spotting the Enemy:** Inside your body, there are special soldiers called T-cells that fight off invaders like bacteria and viruses. But sometimes, cancer cells sneak past these soldiers by wearing a disguise. Durvalumab helps the immune system recognize these disguised cancer cells.
2. **Taking Off the Disguise:** Cancer cells have a protein called PD-L1 that acts like a disguise, hiding them from the immune system. Durvalumab blocks PD-L1, revealing the cancer cells to the immune system.
3. **Activating the Troops:** With the disguise removed, the immune system's T-cells can now spot the cancer cells and attack them. Durvalumab essentially rallies the troops, helping them launch a stronger and more effective attack against the cancer.
So, Durvalumab works by unmasking cancer cells, allowing the immune system to identify and destroy them, ultimately helping the body fight the disease.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist