Subcutaneous PD-1 Injection Potential Boon for Patients

The FDA approved the PD1 inhibitor atezolizumab plus hyaluronidase (Tecentriq Hybreza; Genentech), which helps the drug move into tissues, as a subcutaneous injection for the same adult indications as the intravenous formulation of atezolizumab (Tecentriq; Genentech). These include non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), small cell lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, melanoma, and certain sarcomas. The decision was based on the IMscin001 trial in adults with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC who haven’t received immunotherapy but whose disease worsened after treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy. Subcutaneous administration takes much less time than intravenous, making treatment more manageable for patients.