Getting an infusion for
Stage 3B/C or Stage 4
melanoma after surgery
To help prevent a type of skin cancer called melanoma from coming back in adults and children 12 years and older with Stage III or Stage IV melanoma after it has been completely removed by surgery
Actor portrayals.
This is what your treatment plan may look like
There are two different infusion schedule options for this treatment, and your dose of OPDIVO may vary depending on how often you receive treatment. Talk to your doctor about which option is best for you and ask any questions you may have before starting treatment. Only your doctor can make specific recommendations about your treatment. For adults and children age 12 years and older and weighing 88 lbs or more, follow the treatment plan below.
OPTION 1 – A LOWER DOSE EVERY 2 WEEKS
More regularly scheduled time with your healthcare team with less time in between appointments
Your treatment will continue as long as it is working, and side effects are manageable. Treatment may continue for up to 1 year.
OPTION 2 – A HIGHER DOSE EVERY 4 WEEKS
Regularly scheduled time with your healthcare team with more time in between appointments
Your treatment will continue as long as it is working, and side effects are manageable. Treatment may continue for up to 1 year.
For children 12 years and older and weighing less than 88 lbs, treatment will continue to be determined by your doctor based upon weight and will be given every 2 weeks or 4 weeks for up to 1 year.
To make it easier for your treatment to fit into your routine, try to schedule your appointments for the same day and time each week. You can also designate that time to talk with your healthcare team to let them know how you’re feeling and to ask questions.
Wear clothes and shoes that make you feel comfortable so it’s easier to relax. Think about bringing a light blanket or a travel pillow for even more comfort.
Help pass the time at your treatment by bringing a book, magazine, tablet, or using your phone. (And don’t forget to bring your chargers.)
It’s important to pay close attention to how you feel during and after treatments and let your healthcare team know how you feel. During treatment, your healthcare team will also check you for side effects and may treat you with additional medications to help relieve them. Your healthcare team may also need to delay or completely stop your treatment if you have severe side effects.
We hope that the information on this page is helpful but be sure to communicate with your healthcare team because they are your best source of information. Talk to your healthcare team about anything you may be experiencing during your treatment. See below for possible side effects.
Learn more about the complimentary OPDIVO with You support program
Explore resources to help you along your treatment journey
Explore findings from clinical trials with OPDIVO and OPDIVO-based combinations
