How Subcutaneous vs IV May Affect Treatment Adherence in Cancer Care

In an interview with CURE®, Dr. Eric K. Singhi shared his insights into the primary advantages of utilizing the subcutaneous formulation of Opdivo Qvantig (nivolumab and hyaluronidase-nvhy) compared with the intravenous (IV) version in eligible patients. He also went on to add his thoughts on how this may impact treatment adherence and quality of life for patients receiving immunotherapy.

Notably, this interview came following the Dec. 27, 2024, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the subcutaneous injection formulation of Opdivo for patients with solid tumors.

Singhi currently serves as an assistant professor in both the Department of General Oncology and the Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, in Houston, Texas. To read our full interview with the expert, click here.

Transcript:

From the patient perspective, the primary advantages of having this under-the-skin, subcutaneous formulation of Opdivo can include a shorter administration time. The subcutaneous injection can be completed in just three to five minutes compared with the 30-minute infusion time that's required for the IV version of Opdivo. This doesn't seem like a lot, but when you think about the impact of time toxicity that's associated with cancer treatments, — which includes visits to the doctor, lab checks, scans, infusion times and even going to the pharmacy to pick up your medications — just saving 25 minutes or more could mean a lot for a patient and their family, allowing them to maintain a more normal routine. This is definitely something to think about.

It's also more convenient. Some patients have difficulty with venous access, getting an IV put in, being able to get the IV formulation of a medication. This is an opportunity to have an under-the-skin immunotherapy version that could be much more convenient for those patients. It also offers a more patient-centric experience. The option for under-the-skin, subcutaneous injections could reduce the frequency of hospital visits. It could potentially allow for treatments to be closer to a patient's home.

The subcutaneous formulation could improve treatment adherence by making the therapy more convenient and less disruptive to patients’ lives. With a quicker administration time and the possibility of receiving the treatment closer to home, patients may find it easier to want to continue their treatment as prescribed, reducing the likelihood of missed doses. This convenience can also improve the overall quality of life by minimizing the time that patients and their loved ones have to spend in medical facilities.

Transcript was edited for clarity and conciseness.

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