How long does Opdivo stay in your system?
Opdivo stays in your system for a very long time, up to 3 to 4 months (100 to 125 days). This is based on the half-life of Opdivo, which is 25 days. The half-life is the time it takes for half of a drug to be removed from the body, and experts have agreed it takes 4 to 5 half-lives for a drug to be completely removed from the body. This calculates out to 100 to 125 days for Opdivo. This means that side effects can still occur because of Opdivo a few months after you stop taking the drug.
References
- Opdivo (nivolumab) Updated 05/2022. E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C. https://www.drugs.com/pro/opdivo.htmlFood,the%20treatment%20of%20bladder%20cancer.
Read next
What are monoclonal antibodies?
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are man-made proteins that mimic the natural antibodies produced by our immune systems. Monoclonal antibodies can be formulated into medicines to treat various types of illnesses, such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis. Continue reading
How effective is Opdivo?
The effectiveness of Opdivo at prolonging or extending life depends on the type and stage of cancer it is used to treat and if it is used alone or in combination with other treatments (such as Yervoy). There are several ways clinical trials measure success. Continue reading
Opdivo vs Opdivo Qvantig: What is the Difference?
Opdivo and Opdivo Qvantig are both immunotherapy treatments containing nivolumab that help fight cancer by interfering with cancer cell growth and spread. However, they have several key differences in their administration method, approved uses, and patient eligibility. Continue reading
Related medical questions
- How long does Opdivo take to work and how do you know if it's working?
- What is the difference between Opdivo and Keytruda?
- Pembrolizumab vs. nivolumab: How do they compare?
- What happens when you stop taking Opdivo for melanoma?
- How effective are Opdivo and Yervoy when taken together?
- Is Opdivo a chemotherapy or immunotherapy drug?
- How are Opdivo and Yervoy administered?
- Is Opdivo approved for treating bladder cancer?
- Is Xalkori the same as Opdivo or Keytruda?
- What are biologic drugs and how do they work?
Drug information
- Opdivo Information for Consumers
- Opdivo prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Opdivo (detailed)
- Opdivo user reviews (90)
Related support groups
- Opdivo (18 questions, 53 members)