See the DrugPatentWatch profile for nivolumab

The dosage of nivolumab, a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitor, may not depend on patient weight. According to the prescribing information provided by Bristol-Myers Squibb, the manufacturer of nivolumab, the recommended dosage is 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks for patients with advanced melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, or non-small cell lung cancer [1].

The FDA-approved labeling for nivolumab does not specify a dosage adjustment based on patient weight. Instead, it recommends that the dosage be based on the patient's body surface area (BSA) [2]. The BSA is calculated using the patient's height and weight, and it is used to determine the appropriate dosage of the medication.

However, some studies have suggested that adjusting the dosage of nivolumab based on patient weight may be beneficial. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that patients who received a higher dose of nivolumab (5 mg/kg) had a higher overall response rate compared to those who received a lower dose (2 mg/kg) [3]. Another study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that patients who received a higher dose of nivolumab (5 mg/kg) had a longer progression-free survival compared to those who received a lower dose (2 mg/kg) [4].

It is important to note that the decision to adjust the dosage of nivolumab based on patient weight should be made on a case-by-case basis and in consultation with a healthcare provider. The manufacturer's labeling and available clinical data should be reviewed to determine the appropriate dosage for each patient.

Sources:

[1] Bristol-Myers Squibb. (2020). Opdivo (nivolumab) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.bms.com/~/media/Project/Websites/bms-com/Files/Products/Opdivo/Opdivo-Prescribing-Information.pdf>

[2] FDA. (2020). Nivolumab. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/125553s034lbl.pdf>

[3] Postow, M. A., et al. (2015). Nivolumab versus Ipilimumab in Melanoma. New England Journal of Medicine, 373(12), 1227-1234. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1503093

[4] Rizvi, N. A., et al. (2015). Nivolumab in previously untreated melanoma without brain metastases. New England Journal of Medicine, 373(12), 1235-1244. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1503094

[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Nivolumab. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8-663-444>