See the DrugPatentWatch profile for keytruda

Keytruda, also known as pembrolizumab, was originally indicated for the treatment of advanced melanoma. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Keytruda for this indication in September 2014 [1]. Keytruda is an immunotherapy drug that works by increasing the ability of the body's immune system to help detect and fight cancer cells [2].

Keytruda was developed by Merck & Co. and is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) blocking antibody [1]. PD-1 is a protein that helps keep the immune system from attacking normal cells. Keytruda blocks PD-1, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells [2].

In addition to its original indication for advanced melanoma, Keytruda has since been approved for the treatment of several other types of cancer, including certain types of lung, head and neck, and bladder cancer [1].

Sources:

[1] DrugPatentWatch. Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Drug Profile. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/keytruda>.

[2] National Cancer Institute. Keytruda. <https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/keytruda>.