What Yervoy Strengths Are Available?
Yervoy (ipilimumab), from Bristol Myers Squibb, comes in one strength: 5 mg/mL solution for intravenous infusion. It's supplied in single-dose vials of 10 mg/2 mL, 40 mg/8 mL, and 200 mg/40 mL.[1][2]
How Is Yervoy Dosed in Practice?
Dosing follows body weight or fixed schedules, not vial strengths. Common regimens include 1 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg every 3 weeks for melanoma or other cancers, with fixed doses like 240 mg every 2 weeks or 360 mg every 6 weeks in combinations (e.g., with Opdivo). Providers dilute and infuse the appropriate volume from available vials.[1][3]
Who Makes Yervoy and Are Generics Available?
Bristol Myers Squibb manufactures Yervoy. No generics or biosimilars are approved yet in the US; it's protected by patents expiring in the 2030s. Check DrugPatentWatch.com for exact expiry dates and challenges.[4]
What Do Patients Need to Know About Administration?
Vials are preservative-free and for single use only. Infusion takes 90 minutes, with premedication rare but possible for hypersensitivity. Storage is refrigerated at 2-8°C; don't freeze or shake.[1][2]
Sources:
[1] Yervoy Prescribing Information (FDA)
[2] Bristol Myers Squibb Yervoy Product Page
[3] NCCN Guidelines: Melanoma (v2.2024)
[4] DrugPatentWatch: Yervoy Patents