Last reviewed · How we verify

Neoadjuvant nivolumab

The Netherlands Cancer Institute · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Neoadjuvant nivolumab is a PD-1 inhibitor Small molecule drug developed by The Netherlands Cancer Institute. It is currently in Phase 3 development for Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable non-small cell lung cancer, Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable melanoma, Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer. Also known as: Opdivo.

Nivolumab is a PD-1 inhibitor that blocks the interaction between PD-1 on T cells and PD-L1/PD-L2 on tumor cells, thereby releasing the brakes on anti-tumor immune responses.

Nivolumab is a PD-1 inhibitor that blocks the interaction between PD-1 on T cells and PD-L1/PD-L2 on tumor cells, thereby releasing the brakes on anti-tumor immune responses. Used for Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable non-small cell lung cancer, Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable melanoma, Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer.

At a glance

Generic nameNeoadjuvant nivolumab
Also known asOpdivo
SponsorThe Netherlands Cancer Institute
Drug classPD-1 inhibitor
TargetPD-1
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

By inhibiting the PD-1 checkpoint, nivolumab restores T cell activation and proliferation, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. In the neoadjuvant setting, it is administered before surgery to reduce tumor burden and improve surgical outcomes while potentially enhancing anti-tumor immunity.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

Frequently asked questions about Neoadjuvant nivolumab

What is Neoadjuvant nivolumab?

Neoadjuvant nivolumab is a PD-1 inhibitor drug developed by The Netherlands Cancer Institute, indicated for Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable non-small cell lung cancer, Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable melanoma, Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer.

How does Neoadjuvant nivolumab work?

Nivolumab is a PD-1 inhibitor that blocks the interaction between PD-1 on T cells and PD-L1/PD-L2 on tumor cells, thereby releasing the brakes on anti-tumor immune responses.

What is Neoadjuvant nivolumab used for?

Neoadjuvant nivolumab is indicated for Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable non-small cell lung cancer, Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable melanoma, Neoadjuvant treatment of resectable esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer.

Who makes Neoadjuvant nivolumab?

Neoadjuvant nivolumab is developed by The Netherlands Cancer Institute (see full The Netherlands Cancer Institute pipeline at /company/the-netherlands-cancer-institute).

Is Neoadjuvant nivolumab also known as anything else?

Neoadjuvant nivolumab is also known as Opdivo.

What drug class is Neoadjuvant nivolumab in?

Neoadjuvant nivolumab belongs to the PD-1 inhibitor class. See all PD-1 inhibitor drugs at /class/pd-1-inhibitor.

What development phase is Neoadjuvant nivolumab in?

Neoadjuvant nivolumab is in Phase 3.

What are the side effects of Neoadjuvant nivolumab?

Common side effects of Neoadjuvant nivolumab include Fatigue, Pneumonitis, Hepatotoxicity, Colitis, Hypothyroidism, Rash.

What does Neoadjuvant nivolumab target?

Neoadjuvant nivolumab targets PD-1 and is a PD-1 inhibitor.

Related