Dosing of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized oncology by enhancing the immune system’s ability to target tumours, leading to significant cancer regression. Key ICIs include nivolumab, pembrolizumab, cemiplimab, dostarlimab, atezolizumab, avelumab, durvalumab, ipilimumab, and tremelimumab. Approved by Health Canada, these drugs treat various cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, and renal cell carcinoma. Many ICIs block the PD-1 and PD-L1 pathways, preventing tumours from evading the immune system. However, they can cause immune-related adverse effects. Dosing varies, often based on weight or fixed doses, with weight-based dosing potentially being more cost-effective. Policies in Canada often mandate weight-based dosing up to a cap for certain ICIs, although they can vary by drug or jurisdiction. This project will review recent evidence on dosing strategies with the aim of optimizing ICI treatment. Jurisdictions will use this evidence to inform decisions on the best dosing practices for ICIs.

Projects listed as “in progress” are at various stages and points of completion. These products have different processes and timelines; therefore, the timing of posting of the final reports varies and expected completion dates may change. Find out more about Projects in Progress.

The “Projects in Progress” page on the CADTH website is updated on a seven- to eight-day cycle. Please be advised that there may be overlap between when a new report is posted online and when the section is updated. View our current Projects in Progress.