Yervoy

ipilimumab · Injection · Intravenous

Prescription (Rx) CTLA-4-directed Blocking Antibody

Uses

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE YERVOY is a human cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4)-blocking antibody indicated for: Melanoma
• Treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma in adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older as a single agent or in combination with nivolumab. (1.1)
• Adjuvant treatment of adult patients with cutaneous melanoma with pathologic involvement of regional lymph nodes of more than 1 mm who have undergone complete resection, including total lymphadenectomy. (1.2) Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)
• Treatment of adult patients with intermediate or poor risk advanced renal cell carcinoma, as first-line treatment in combination with nivolumab. (1.3) Colorectal Cancer
• Treatment of adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older with unresectable or metastatic microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) colorectal cancer (CRC) as determined by an FDA-authorized test in combination with nivolumab. (1.4) Hepatocellular Carcinoma
• adult patients with unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as first-line treatment in combination with nivolumab. ( 1.5 )
• in combination with nivolumab in adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HCC who have been previously treated with sorafenib. (1.5) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
• Treatment of adult patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer expressing PD-L1 (≥1%) as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations, as first-line treatment in combination with nivolumab. (1.6)
• Treatment of adult patients with metastatic or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations as first-line treatment, in combination with nivolumab and 2 cycles of platinum-doublet chemotherapy. (1.6) Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
• Treatment of adult patients with unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma, as first-line treatment in combination with nivolumab. (1.7) Esophageal Cancer
• Treatment of adult patients with unresectable advanced or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, as first line treatment in combination with nivolumab whose tumors express PD-L1 (≥1). (1.8) 1.1 Unresectable or Metastatic Melanoma YERVOY, as a single agent or in combination with nivolumab, is indicated for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma in adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older. 1.2 Adjuvant Treatment of Melanoma YERVOY is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with cutaneous melanoma with pathologic involvement of regional lymph nodes of more than 1 mm who have undergone complete resection, including total lymphadenectomy. 1.3 Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma YERVOY, in combination with nivolumab, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with intermediate or poor risk advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). 1.4 Microsatellite Instability-High or Mismatch Repair Deficient Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
• YERVOY, in combination with nivolumab, is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older with unresectable or metastatic microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) colorectal cancer (CRC) as determined by an FDA-authorized test . 1.5 Hepatocellular Carcinoma
• YERVOY, in combination with nivolumab, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
• YERVOY, in combination with nivolumab, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HCC who have been previously treated with sorafenib. 1.6 Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer YERVOY, in combination with nivolumab, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors express PD-L1 (≥1%) as determined by an FDA-authorized test [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] , with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations. YERVOY, in combination with nivolumab and 2 cycles of platinum-doublet chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic or recurrent NSCLC, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations. 1.7 Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma YERVOY, in combination with nivolumab, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma. 1.8 Esophageal Cancer YERVOY, in combination with nivolumab, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with unresectable advanced or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) whose tumors express PD-L1 (≥1) [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] .

Dosage and administration

• Administer by intravenous infusion after dilution based upon recommended infusion rate for each indication. (2)
• Unresectable or Metastatic Melanoma : ∘ YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks for a maximum of 4 doses. (2.2) ∘ YERVOY 3 mg/kg immediately following nivolumab 1 mg/kg on the same day, every 3 weeks for 4 doses. After completing 4 doses of the combination, administer nivolumab as a single agent as recommended in the Full Prescribing Information for nivolumab. (2.2)
• Adjuvant Treatment of Melanoma : YERVOY 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks for 4 doses, followed by 3 mg/kg every 12 weeks for up to 4 additional doses. (2.2)
• Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma : YERVOY 1 mg/kg immediately following nivolumab 3 mg/kg on the same day, every 3 weeks for 4 doses. After completing 4 doses of the combination, administer nivolumab as a single agent as recommended in Full Prescribing Information for nivolumab. (2.2)
• Treatment of microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) colorectal cancer in combination with nivolumab : ∘ Adult and pediatric patients weighing 40 kg or greater: YERVOY 1 mg/kg immediately following nivolumab 240 mg on the same day every 3 weeks for a maximum of 4 doses. After completing the combination, administer nivolumab as a single agent as recommended in Full Prescribing Information for nivolumab. (2.2) ∘ Pediatric patients weighing less than 40 kg: YERVOY 1 mg/kg immediately following nivolumab 3 mg/kg on the same day every 3 weeks for a maximum of 4 doses. After completing the combination, administer nivolumab as a single agent as recommended in Full Prescribing Information for nivolumab. ( 2.2 )
• Hepatocellular Carcinoma : YERVOY 3 mg/kg intravenously over 30 minutes immediately following nivolumab 1 mg/kg intravenously over 30 minutes on the same day, every 3 weeks for up to 4 doses. After completing up to 4 doses of the combination, administer nivolumab as a single agent as recommended in Full Prescribing Information for nivolumab. (2.2)
• Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer : ∘ YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks with nivolumab 360 mg every 3 weeks. (2.2) ∘ YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks with nivolumab 360 mg every 3 weeks and 2 cycles of platinum-doublet chemotherapy. (2.2)
• Malignant pleural mesothelioma : YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks with nivolumab 360 mg every 3 weeks. (2.2)
• Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks with nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks or 360 mg every 3 weeks. (2.2)
• See full Prescribing Information for preparation and administration instructions and dosage modifications for adverse reactions. 2.1 Patient Selection Information on FDA-authorized tests for patient selection is available at: https://www.fda.gov/CompanionDiagnostics Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
• Select patients with metastatic NSCLC for treatment with YERVOY in combination with nivolumab based on PD-L1 expression [see Clinical Studies (14.6) ] . Microsatellite Instability-High or Mismatch Repair Deficient Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
• Select patients with metastatic colorectal cancer for treatment with YERVOY in combination with nivolumab based on the presence of MSI-H or dMMR status in tumor specimens [see Clinical Studies (14.4) ] . Esophageal Cancer
• Select patients with unresectable or advanced or metastatic ESCC for treatment with YERVOY in combination with nivolumab based on PD-L1 expression [see Clinical Studies (14.8) ] . ∘ An FDA-authorized companion diagnostic for the detection of PD-L1 expression in patients with advanced or metastatic ESCC is not available. 2.2 Recommended Dosage The recommended dosages of YERVOY as a single agent are presented in Table 1. Administer YERVOY as a 30-minute intravenous infusion [see Preparation and Administration (2.4) ] . Table 1: Recommended Dosages for YERVOY as a Single Agent Indication Recommended YERVOY Dosage Duration of Therapy Unresectable or metastatic melanoma 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks Maximum of 4 doses Adjuvant treatment of melanoma 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks followed by 3 mg/kg every 12 weeks Every 3 weeks up to a maximum of 4 doses Every 12 weeks for up to 4 additional doses The recommended dosages of YERVOY in combination with other therapeutic agents are presented in Table 2. Administer YERVOY on the same day as other therapeutic agents. Refer to the respective Prescribing Information for each therapeutic agent administered in combination with YERVOY for recommended dosage information, as appropriate. Table 2: Recommended Dosages of YERVOY in Combination with Other Therapeutic Agents* * Refer to the Prescribing Information for the agents administered in combination with YERVOY for recommended dosing information, as appropriate. † Refer to the Prescribing Information for nivolumab for dosage information after completing use in combination with YERVOY. Indication Recommended YERVOY Dosage Duration of Therapy Unresectable or metastatic melanoma 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks with nivolumab 1 mg/kg In combination with nivolumab for a maximum of 4 doses or until unacceptable toxicity, whichever occurs earlier. After completing 4 doses of combination therapy, administer nivolumab as a single agent until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. † Advanced renal cell carcinoma 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks with nivolumab 3 mg/kg In combination with nivolumab for a maximum of 4 doses. After completing 4 doses of combination therapy, administer nivolumab as single agent until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. † Microsatellite instability-high (MSI‑H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) metastatic colorectal cancer Adult patients and pediatric patients age 12 years and older and weighing 40 kg or more: 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks with nivolumab 240 mg In combination with nivolumab for a maximum of 4 doses. † After completing 4 doses of combination therapy, administer nivolumab as single agent until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 2 years.

Dosage forms and strengths

Injection: 50 mg/10 mL (5 mg/mL) and 200 mg/40 mL (5 mg/mL) as a clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to pale-yellow solution in a single-dose vial.
• Injection: 50 mg/10 mL (5 mg/mL) and 200 mg/40 mL (5 mg/mL) in a single-dose vial. (3)

Contraindications

None.
• None. (4)

Warnings and precautions

• Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions : Immune-mediated adverse reactions (IMAR) can occur in any organ system or tissue, including the following: immune-mediated colitis, immune-mediated hepatitis, immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions, immune-mediated endocrinopathies, immune-mediated pneumonitis, and immune-mediated nephritis with renal dysfunction, and can occur at any time during treatment or after discontinuation. Monitor for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of IMAR. Evaluate clinical chemistries including liver enzymes, creatinine, adrenocorticotropic hormone level and thyroid function including at baseline and before each dose. In general, withhold YERVOY for severe (grade 3) and permanently discontinue for life-threatening (grade 4) immune-mediated adverse reactions. See Full Prescribing Information for additional dosage modifications. ( 2.3 , 5.1 )
• Infusion-Related Reactions : Discontinue for severe and life-threatening infusion-related reactions. Interrupt or slow the rate of infusion in patients with mild or moderate infusion-related reactions. ( 2.3 , 5.2 )
• Complications of allogeneic HSCT : Fatal and other serious complications can occur in patients who receive allogeneic HSCT before or after being treated with YERVOY. (5.3)
• Embryo-Fetal Toxicity : Can cause fetal harm. Advise of potential risk to a fetus and use of effective contraception. ( 5.4 , 8.1 , 8.3 ) 5.1 Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions YERVOY is a fully human monoclonal antibody that blocks T-cell inhibitory signals induced by the CTLA-4 pathway, thereby removing inhibition of the immune response with the potential for induction of immune-mediated adverse reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions listed herein may not be inclusive of all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue. Immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur at any time after starting YERVOY. While immune-mediated adverse reactions usually manifest during treatment, immune-mediated adverse reactions can also manifest after discontinuation of YERVOY. Early identification and management are essential to ensure safe use of YERVOY. Monitor for signs and symptoms that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate clinical chemistries including liver enzymes, creatinine, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level, and thyroid function at baseline and before each dose. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate. Withhold or permanently discontinue YERVOY depending on severity [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ]. In general, if YERVOY requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Immune-Mediated Colitis YERVOY can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may be fatal. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. YERVOY 3 mg/kg as a Single Agent Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 12% (62/511) of patients who received YERVOY 3 mg/kg as a single agent, including Grade 3-5 (7%) and Grade 2 (5%). Colitis led to permanent discontinuation of YERVOY in 4.3% and withholding of at least one dose of YERVOY in 0.2% of patients. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 74% (46/62) of patients with immune-mediated colitis. Five patients required coadministration of another immunosuppressant with corticosteroids. Colitis resolved in 76% of the 62 patients. One patient was withheld one or more doses of YERVOY for colitis, and no patient received additional treatment after symptom improvement. YERVOY 1 mg/kg with 3 mg/kg Nivolumab Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 9% (60/666) of patients who received YERVOY 1 mg/kg with nivolumab for the treatment of RCC or mCRC, including Grade 3 (4.4%), and Grade 2 (3.7%). Colitis led to permanent discontinuation of YERVOY and nivolumab in 3.2% and withholding of YERVOY and nivolumab in 2.7% of patients. In patients who received YERVOY 1 mg/kg with nivolumab, use of systemic corticosteroids was one of the diagnostic criteria required to identify immune-mediated colitis. Systemic corticosteroids were therefore required in 100% (60/60) of patients with immune-mediated colitis. Approximately 23% of patients required coadministration of another immunosuppressant with corticosteroids. Colitis resolved in 95% of the 60 patients. Of the 18 patients in whom YERVOY or nivolumab was withheld for colitis, 16 received additional treatment after symptom improvement; of these, 10 had recurrence of colitis. YERVOY 3 mg/kg with 1 mg/kg Nivolumab Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 25% (115/456) of patients with melanoma or HCC receiving YERVOY 3 mg/kg with nivolumab 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks, including Grade 4 (0.4%), Grade 3 (14%), and Grade 2 (8%) adverse reactions. Colitis led to permanent discontinuation of YERVOY with nivolumab in 14% and withholding of treatment in 4.4% of patients. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 100% (115/115) of patients with colitis. Approximately 23% of patients required addition of infliximab to high-dose corticosteroids. Colitis resolved in 93% of 115 patients. Of the 20 patients in whom YERVOY with nivolumab was withheld for colitis, 16 reinitiated treatment after symptom improvement, and 9 had recurrence of colitis.

Side effects

The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
• Severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .
• Infusion-related reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Most common adverse reactions (≥20%) with YERVOY as a single agent are fatigue, diarrhea, pruritus, rash, nausea, and headache. (6.1) Most common adverse reactions (≥20%) with YERVOY in combination with nivolumab are fatigue, diarrhea, rash, pruritus, nausea, musculoskeletal pain, pyrexia, cough, decreased appetite, vomiting, abdominal pain, dyspnea, upper respiratory tract infection, arthralgia, headache, hypothyroidism, constipation, decreased weight, and dizziness. (6.1) Most common adverse reactions (≥20%) with YERVOY in combination with nivolumab and platinum-doublet chemotherapy are fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, diarrhea, rash, decreased appetite, constipation, and pruritus. (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1-800-721-5072 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. The data described in the Warnings and Precautions section reflect exposure to YERVOY 3 mg/kg as a single agent (or in combination with an investigational gp100 peptide vaccine) in 511 patients in Study MDX010-20; YERVOY 1 mg/kg administered with nivolumab 3 mg/kg in 1,362 patients in CHECKMATE-214, CHECKMATE-142, CHECKMATE-227, and CHECKMATE-743; YERVOY 3 mg/kg administered with nivolumab 1 mg/kg in 456 patients enrolled in CHECKMATE-067, CHECKMATE-040, and another randomized trial; and to YERVOY 1 mg/kg, administered in combination with nivolumab and platinum-doublet chemotherapy in CHECKMATE-9LA. Unresectable or Metastatic Melanoma The safety of YERVOY was evaluated in 643 previously treated patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma in Study MDX010-20 [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . Study MDX010-20 excluded patients with active autoimmune disease or those receiving systemic immunosuppression for organ transplantation. Patients received YERVOY 3 mg/kg by intravenous infusion for 4 doses as a single agent (n=131), YERVOY with an investigational gp100 peptide vaccine (n=380), or gp100 peptide vaccine as a single agent (n=132). Patients in the trial received a median of 4 doses (range: 1 to 4 doses). The trial population characteristics were: median age 57 years (range: 19 to 90), 59% male, 94% White, and baseline ECOG performance status 0 (56%). YERVOY was discontinued for adverse reactions in 10% of patients. Table 4 presents adverse reactions from Study MDX010-20. Table 4: Selected Adverse Reactions (≥5%) in Patients Receiving YERVOY with a Difference Between Arms of >5% for All Grades and >1% for Grades 3 to 5 Compared to gp100 Peptide Vaccine in Study MDX010-20 Adverse Reactions YERVOY 3 mg/kg n=131 YERVOY 3 mg/kg and gp100 n=380 gp100 n=132 All Grades (%) Grade 3 to 5 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 to 5 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 to 5 (%) General and Administration-Site Conditions Fatigue 41 7 34 5 31 3 Gastrointestinal Diarrhea 32 5 37 4 20 1 Colitis 8 5 5 3 2 0 Dermatologic Pruritus 31 0 21 <1 11 0 Rash 29 2 25 2 8 0 Unresectable or Metastatic Melanoma: In Combination with Nivolumab The safety of YERVOY, administered with nivolumab or as a single agent, was evaluated in CHECKMATE-067, a randomized (1:1:1), double-blind trial in 937 patients with previously untreated, unresectable or metastatic melanoma [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . The trial excluded patients with autoimmune disease, a medical condition requiring systemic treatment with corticosteroids (more than 10 mg daily prednisone equivalent) or other immunosuppressive medication within 14 days of the start of study therapy, a positive test result for hepatitis B or C, or a history of HIV. Patients were randomized to receive:
• YERVOY 3 mg/kg by intravenous infusion over 90 minutes with nivolumab 1 mg/kg by intravenous infusion every 3 weeks for 4 doses followed by nivolumab as a single agent at a dose of 3 mg/kg by intravenous infusion every 2 weeks (YERVOY and nivolumab arm; n=313), or
• Nivolumab 3 mg/kg by intravenous infusion every 2 weeks (nivolumab arm; n=313), or
• YERVOY 3 mg/kg by intravenous infusion over 90 minutes every 3 weeks for up to 4 doses (YERVOY arm; n=311). The median duration of exposure to nivolumab was 2.8 months (range: 1 day to 36.4 months) for the YERVOY and nivolumab arm. In the YERVOY and nivolumab arm, 39% were exposed to nivolumab for ≥6 months and 30% exposed for >1 year. Serious adverse reactions (74%), adverse reactions leading to permanent discontinuation (47%) or to dosing delays (58%), and Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions (72%) occurred in patients treated with YERVOY and nivolumab. The most frequent (≥10%) serious adverse reactions in the YERVOY and nivolumab arm were diarrhea (13%), colitis (10%), and pyrexia (10%). The most frequent adverse reactions leading to discontinuation of both drugs in the YERVOY and nivolumab arm were colitis (10%), diarrhea (8%), increased ALT (4.8%), increased AST (4.5%), and pneumonitis (1.9%). The most common (≥20%) adverse reactions in the YERVOY and nivolumab arm were fatigue, diarrhea, rash, nausea, pyrexia, pruritus, musculoskeletal pain, vomiting, decreased appetite, cough, headache, dyspnea, upper respiratory tract infection, arthralgia, and increased transaminases. Tables 5 and 6 summarize the incidence of adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities, respectively, in CHECKMATE-067.

Use in specific populations

• Lactation : Advise not to breastfeed. ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings from animal studies and its mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ] , YERVOY can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There is insufficient human data for YERVOY exposure in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, administration of ipilimumab to cynomolgus monkeys from the onset of organogenesis through delivery resulted in higher incidences of abortion, stillbirth, premature delivery (with corresponding lower birth weight), and higher incidences of infant mortality in a dose-related manner (see Data ) . The effects of ipilimumab are likely to be greater during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Human IgG1 is known to cross the placental barrier and ipilimumab is an IgG1; therefore, ipilimumab has the potential to be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Report pregnancies to Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1-844-593-7869. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data In a combined study of embryo-fetal and peri-postnatal development, pregnant cynomolgus monkeys received ipilimumab every 3 weeks from the onset of organogenesis in the first trimester through parturition. No treatment-related adverse effects on reproduction were detected during the first two trimesters of pregnancy. Beginning in the third trimester, administration of ipilimumab at doses resulting in exposures approximately 2.6 to 7.2 times the human exposure at a dose of 3 mg/kg resulted in dose-related increases in abortion, stillbirth, premature delivery (with corresponding lower birth weight), and an increased incidence of infant mortality. In addition, developmental abnormalities were identified in the urogenital system of 2 infant monkeys exposed in utero to 30 mg/kg of ipilimumab (7.2 times the humans exposure based on area under the curve at a dose of 3 mg/kg). One female infant monkey had unilateral renal agenesis of the left kidney and ureter, and 1 male infant monkey had an imperforate urethra with associated urinary obstruction and subcutaneous scrotal edema. Genetically engineered mice heterozygous for CTLA-4 (CTLA-4+/−), the target for ipilimumab, appeared healthy and gave birth to healthy CTLA-4+/− heterozygous offspring. Mated CTLA-4+/− heterozygous mice also produced offspring deficient in CTLA-4 (homozygous negative, CTLA-4−/−). The CTLA-4−/− homozygous negative offspring appeared healthy at birth, exhibited signs of multiorgan lymphoproliferative disease by 2 weeks of age, and all died by 3 to 4 weeks of age with massive lymphoproliferation and multiorgan tissue destruction. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of YERVOY in human milk or its effects on the breastfed child or milk production. In monkeys, ipilimumab was present in milk (see Data ) . Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed children, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with YERVOY and for 3 months following the last dose. Data In monkeys treated at dose levels resulting in exposures 2.6 and 7.2 times higher than those in humans at a 3 mg/kg dose, ipilimumab was present in milk at concentrations of 0.1 mcg/mL and 0.4 mcg/mL, representing a ratio of up to 0.3% of the steady-state serum concentration of the drug. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Pregnancy Testing Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating YERVOY [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Contraception YERVOY can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with YERVOY and for 3 months following the last dose. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of YERVOY have been established in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older for the following indications: as a single agent and in combination with nivolumab for unresectable or metastatic melanoma, in combination with nivolumab for the treatment of MSI-H or dMMR unresectable and metastatic CRC, and in combination with nivolumab for MSI-H or dMMR mCRC that has progressed following treatment with a fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan. Use of YERVOY for these indications is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in adults with melanoma or MSI-H or dMMR mCRC and additional pharmacokinetic data in pediatric patients. Ipilimumab exposures in pediatric patients 12 years and older are comparable to that of adults, and the courses of melanoma and MSI-H or dMMR mCRC are similar in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older to that of adults to allow extrapolation of safety and efficacy [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) , Clinical Studies (14.4) ] . The safety and effectiveness of YERVOY have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 12 years old with unresectable or metastatic melanoma or MSI-H or dMMR mCRC. The safety and effectiveness of YERVOY have not been established in pediatric patients for the adjuvant treatment of melanoma or for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, metastatic non-small cell lung cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma and esophageal cancer. In a dose-finding trial (NCT01445379), 33 patients aged 2 to 21 years (median 13 years) with relapsed or refractory solid tumors were evaluated including unresectable stage IIIc or stage IV melanoma (12), progressive or refractory sarcomas (17), renal or bladder carcinoma (3), and neuroblastoma (1). No responses in the patients with non-melanoma solid tumors and no new safety signals were observed in pediatric patients in this study.

Pregnancy

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings from animal studies and its mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ] , YERVOY can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There is insufficient human data for YERVOY exposure in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, administration of ipilimumab to cynomolgus monkeys from the onset of organogenesis through delivery resulted in higher incidences of abortion, stillbirth, premature delivery (with corresponding lower birth weight), and higher incidences of infant mortality in a dose-related manner (see Data ) . The effects of ipilimumab are likely to be greater during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Human IgG1 is known to cross the placental barrier and ipilimumab is an IgG1; therefore, ipilimumab has the potential to be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Report pregnancies to Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1-844-593-7869. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data In a combined study of embryo-fetal and peri-postnatal development, pregnant cynomolgus monkeys received ipilimumab every 3 weeks from the onset of organogenesis in the first trimester through parturition. No treatment-related adverse effects on reproduction were detected during the first two trimesters of pregnancy. Beginning in the third trimester, administration of ipilimumab at doses resulting in exposures approximately 2.6 to 7.2 times the human exposure at a dose of 3 mg/kg resulted in dose-related increases in abortion, stillbirth, premature delivery (with corresponding lower birth weight), and an increased incidence of infant mortality. In addition, developmental abnormalities were identified in the urogenital system of 2 infant monkeys exposed in utero to 30 mg/kg of ipilimumab (7.2 times the humans exposure based on area under the curve at a dose of 3 mg/kg). One female infant monkey had unilateral renal agenesis of the left kidney and ureter, and 1 male infant monkey had an imperforate urethra with associated urinary obstruction and subcutaneous scrotal edema. Genetically engineered mice heterozygous for CTLA-4 (CTLA-4+/−), the target for ipilimumab, appeared healthy and gave birth to healthy CTLA-4+/− heterozygous offspring. Mated CTLA-4+/− heterozygous mice also produced offspring deficient in CTLA-4 (homozygous negative, CTLA-4−/−). The CTLA-4−/− homozygous negative offspring appeared healthy at birth, exhibited signs of multiorgan lymphoproliferative disease by 2 weeks of age, and all died by 3 to 4 weeks of age with massive lymphoproliferation and multiorgan tissue destruction.

Pediatric use

8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of YERVOY have been established in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older for the following indications: as a single agent and in combination with nivolumab for unresectable or metastatic melanoma, in combination with nivolumab for the treatment of MSI-H or dMMR unresectable and metastatic CRC, and in combination with nivolumab for MSI-H or dMMR mCRC that has progressed following treatment with a fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan. Use of YERVOY for these indications is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in adults with melanoma or MSI-H or dMMR mCRC and additional pharmacokinetic data in pediatric patients. Ipilimumab exposures in pediatric patients 12 years and older are comparable to that of adults, and the courses of melanoma and MSI-H or dMMR mCRC are similar in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older to that of adults to allow extrapolation of safety and efficacy [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) , Clinical Studies (14.4) ] . The safety and effectiveness of YERVOY have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 12 years old with unresectable or metastatic melanoma or MSI-H or dMMR mCRC. The safety and effectiveness of YERVOY have not been established in pediatric patients for the adjuvant treatment of melanoma or for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, metastatic non-small cell lung cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma and esophageal cancer. In a dose-finding trial (NCT01445379), 33 patients aged 2 to 21 years (median 13 years) with relapsed or refractory solid tumors were evaluated including unresectable stage IIIc or stage IV melanoma (12), progressive or refractory sarcomas (17), renal or bladder carcinoma (3), and neuroblastoma (1). No responses in the patients with non-melanoma solid tumors and no new safety signals were observed in pediatric patients in this study.

Geriatric use

8.5 Geriatric Use Single Agent Of the 511 patients treated with YERVOY in Study MDX010-20 (unresectable or metastatic melanoma), 28% were 65 years and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. In Combination with Nivolumab Of the 314 patients randomized to YERVOY administered with nivolumab in CHECKMATE-067, 41% were 65 years or older and 11% were 75 years or older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were reported between elderly patients and younger patients. Of the 576 patients randomized to YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks with nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks in CHECKMATE-227 (NSCLC), 48% were 65 years or older and 10% were 75 years or older. No overall difference in safety was reported between older patients and younger patients; however, there was a higher discontinuation rate due to adverse reactions in patients aged 75 years or older (29%) relative to all patients who received YERVOY with nivolumab (18%). Of the 396 patients in the primary efficacy population (PD-L1 ≥1%) randomized to YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks with nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks in CHECKMATE-227, the hazard ratio for overall survival was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.55, 0.89) in the 199 patients younger than 65 years compared to 0.91 (95% CI: 0.72, 1.15) in the 197 patients 65 years or older [see Clinical Studies (14.6) ] . Of the 303 patients randomized to YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks in combination with nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks in CHECKMATE-743 (malignant pleural mesothelioma), 77% were 65 years old or older and 26% were 75 years or older. No overall difference in safety was reported between older patients and younger patients; however, there were higher rates of serious adverse reactions and discontinuation rate due to adverse reactions in patients aged 75 years or older (68% and 35%, respectively) relative to all patients who received YERVOY with nivolumab (54% and 28%, respectively). For patients aged 75 years or older who received chemotherapy, the rate of serious adverse reactions was 34% and discontinuation due to adverse reactions was 26% relative to 28% and 19% respectively for all patients. The hazard ratio for overall survival was 0.76 (95% CI: 0.52, 1.11) in the 71 patients younger than 65 years compared to 0.74 (95% CI: 0.59, 0.93) in the 232 patients 65 years or older randomized to YERVOY in combination with nivolumab. Of the 550 patients randomized to YERVOY 1 mg/kg with nivolumab in CHECKMATE-214 (renal cell carcinoma), 38% were 65 years or older and 8% were 75 years or older. No overall difference in safety was observed between these patients and younger patients. In geriatric patients with intermediate or poor risk, no overall difference in effectiveness was observed. Of the 354 patients with dMMR or MSI-H metastatic CRC (mCRC) who were randomized to YERVOY in combination with nivolumab, 44% were 65 years or older and 14% were 75 years or older. Of the 353 patients randomized to nivolumab, as a single agent, 45% were 65 years or older and 13% were 75 years or older. There was a higher incidence of any Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions (55%) in patients aged 65 years or older receiving YERVOY in combination with nivolumab compared to those younger than 65 receiving the combination (42%). There was a higher incidence of adverse reactions leading to discontinuation in patients aged 65 years or older receiving YERVOY in combination with nivolumab (23%) compared to those younger than 65 receiving the combination (15%). No overall differences in effectiveness were reported between elderly patients and younger patients receiving YERVOY in combination with nivolumab [see Clinical Studies (14.4) ] . Of the 335 patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma who were randomized to YERVOY in combination with nivolumab, 52% were 65 years or older and 14% were 75 years or older. No overall difference in safety was reported between elderly patients and younger patients. Of the 49 patients who received YERVOY 3 mg/kg with nivolumab in Cohort 4 of CHECKMATE-040 (previously treated hepatocellular carcinoma), 29% were between 65 years and 74 years of age and 8% were 75 years or older. Clinical studies of YERVOY in combination with nivolumab did not include sufficient numbers of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients. Of the 325 patients who received YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks in combination with nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks in CHECKMATE-648 (ESCC), 43% were 65 years old or older and 7% were 75 years or older. No overall difference in safety was reported between older patients and younger patients; however, there was a higher discontinuation rate due to adverse reactions in patients aged 75 years or older (38%) relative to all patients who received YERVOY with nivolumab (23%). For patients aged 75 years or older who received chemotherapy, the discontinuation rate due to adverse reactions was 33% relative to 23% for all patients. Study CA184-029 (adjuvant treatment of melanoma) and CHECKMATE-142 (metastatic colorectal cancer) did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 years and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients. In Combination with Nivolumab and Platinum-Doublet Chemotherapy Of the 361 patients randomized to YERVOY 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks in combination with nivolumab 360 mg every 3 weeks and platinum-doublet chemotherapy every 3 weeks (for 2 cycles) in CHECKMATE-9LA (NSCLC), 51% were 65 years or older and 10% were 75 years or older. No overall difference in safety was reported between older patients and younger patients; however, there was a higher discontinuation rate due to adverse reactions in patients aged 75 years or older (43%) relative to all patients who received YERVOY with nivolumab and chemotherapy (24%).

Description

Ipilimumab is a human cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4)-blocking antibody. Ipilimumab is a recombinant IgG1 kappa immunoglobulin with an approximate molecular weight of 148 kDa. Ipilimumab is produced in mammalian (Chinese hamster ovary) cell culture. YERVOY (ipilimumab) injection, for intravenous use is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to pale-yellow solution, which may contain a small amount of visible translucent-to-white, amorphous ipilimumab particulates. It is supplied in single-dose vials of 50 mg/10 mL or 200 mg/40 mL. Each milliliter contains 5 mg of ipilimumab and the following inactive ingredients: diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) (0.04 mg), mannitol (10 mg), polysorbate 80 (vegetable origin) (0.1 mg), sodium chloride (5.85 mg), tris hydrochloride (3.15 mg), and Water for Injection, USP at a pH of 7.

Mechanism of action

12.1 Mechanism of Action CTLA-4 is a negative regulator of T-cell activity. Ipilimumab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to CTLA-4 and blocks the interaction of CTLA-4 with its ligands, CD80/CD86. Blockade of CTLA-4 has been shown to augment T-cell activation and proliferation, including the activation and proliferation of tumor infiltrating T-effector cells. Inhibition of CTLA-4 signaling can also reduce T-regulatory cell function, which may contribute to a general increase in T-cell responsiveness, including the anti-tumor immune response.

How supplied

(ipilimumab) injection is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to pale-yellow solution. YERVOY is available as follows: Carton Contents NDC One 50 mg/10 mL (5 mg/mL), single-dose vial NDC 0003-2327-11 One 200 mg/40 mL (5 mg/mL), single-dose vial NDC 0003-2328-22 Store YERVOY under refrigeration at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Protect YERVOY from light by storing in the original carton until time of use. Do not freeze or shake.

Patient information

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide). Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions Advise patients that YERVOY can cause immune-mediated adverse reactions including the following [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] :
• Immune-Mediated Diarrhea or Colitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of diarrhea or colitis.
• Immune-Mediated Hepatitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of hepatitis.
• Immune-Mediated Dermatologic Adverse Reactions: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately if they develop a new rash.
• Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of hypophysitis, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes mellitus.
• Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for any new or worsening symptoms of pneumonitis.
• Immune-Mediated Nephritis with Renal Dysfunction: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of nephritis. Infusion-Related Reactions
• Advise patients who are receiving YERVOY of the potential risk of an infusion-related reaction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
• Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) , Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ] .
• Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with YERVOY and for 3 months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ] .
• Advise patients who may have been exposed to YERVOY during pregnancy to contact Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1-844-593-7869 [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Lactation
• Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with YERVOY and for 3 months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2) ] . Manufactured by: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Princeton, NJ 08543 USA U.S. License No. 1713 [print code]

Label text from the FDA structured product label by E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C. (revised Aug 20, 2026). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.

Active ingredients

Ipilimumab in 2 products

Yervoy NDC products (2)

NDC	Strength & form	Labeler	Type
0003-2327	Ipilimumab 5 mg/mL Injection	E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C.	BLA
0003-2328	Ipilimumab 5 mg/mL Injection	E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C.	BLA

Frequently asked questions

What is Yervoy used for?

What are the side effects of Yervoy?

Who makes Yervoy?

Yervoy is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C..