Ipilimumab
Yervoy (ipilimumab) is a prescription monoclonal antibody immunotherapy used to treat certain cancers by helping the body's immune system attack cancer cells. It is specifically indicated for melanoma and is used either alone or in combination with other medications. As an immunotherapy, it works by blocking a protein called CTLA-4 that normally helps keep immune cells in check, allowing the immune system to become more active against cancer.
Yervoy is an immunotherapy drug used to treat certain cancers by helping the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1094837
- Generic
- Yervoy
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Yervoy is FDA-approved for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma in adults and pediatric patients. It may also be used in combination with other immunotherapies for certain other cancers. Treatment is typically considered when other treatments have not worked or are no longer effective.
Yervoy is a monoclonal antibody that blocks CTLA-4, a protein on T-cells that normally acts as a brake on the immune response. By inhibiting CTLA-4, the medication helps activate and multiply T-cells, enhancing the body's immune response against cancer cells.
Yervoy is administered as an intravenous infusion by healthcare professionals. It can cause serious immune-mediated side effects affecting various organs including the colon, liver, skin, nerves, and endocrine glands. Patients should be monitored closely during and after treatment. Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, skin rash, and itching. Treatment should only be administered under the supervision of oncologists experienced with immunotherapy.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy