See the DrugPatentWatch profile for keytruda

Keytruda, also known as pembrolizumab, is an immunotherapy drug that has been shown to improve cancer treatment outcomes in certain cases. It works by blocking a protein called PD-1, which can help cancer cells avoid detection by the immune system. By blocking PD-1, Keytruda enables the immune system to better identify and attack cancer cells.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that Keytruda can be effective in treating several types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and head and neck cancer. In some cases, Keytruda has been shown to shrink tumors and improve survival rates. For example, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer who received Keytruda had a higher overall survival rate than those who received chemotherapy [1].

However, it's important to note that Keytruda is not effective for all types of cancer, and it may not be appropriate for all patients. The drug can have serious side effects, including immune-mediated side effects such as pneumonitis, colitis, hepatitis, and endocrinopathies [2]. Additionally, Keytruda is expensive and may not be covered by all insurance plans.

Keytruda is manufactured by Merck & Co., and its patent is set to expire in 2028 [3]. This means that generic versions of the drug may become available in the next decade, which could help reduce costs and increase access to the treatment.

In summary, Keytruda is an immunotherapy drug that has been shown to improve cancer treatment outcomes in certain cases. While it can be effective in treating several types of cancer, it's not appropriate for all patients and can have serious side effects. Keytruda is expensive and its patent is set to expire in 2028.

Sources:

1. "Pembrolizumab versus Chemotherapy for PD-L1–Positive Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer," New England Journal of Medicine, <https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1801005>.
2. "Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Injection, for Intravenous Use," Merck & Co., <https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/k/keytruda/keytruda_pi.pdf>.
3. "Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) Patent Information," DrugPatentWatch, <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/keytruda-pembrolizumab/>.