The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved Keytruda, a type of immunotherapy drug known as a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitor, for cancer treatment on September 4, 2014 [1]. Keytruda, which is manufactured by Merck & Co., was initially approved for the treatment of advanced melanoma in patients whose disease had progressed after other treatments [1][2].

Since its initial approval, Keytruda has received additional approvals from the FDA for the treatment of several other types of cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck squamous cell cancer, classical Hodgkin lymphoma, urothelial carcinoma, and microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) cancer [1][2].

It is important to note that while Keytruda has been shown to be effective in treating certain types of cancer, it is not appropriate for all patients and may have serious side effects [2]. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to determine whether Keytruda is a suitable treatment option for them.

Sources:

* [1] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) prescribing information. <https://www.fda.gov/media/84561/download>.
* [2] Merck & Co., Inc. (2021). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) indications and usage. <https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/k/keytruda/keytruda_pi.pdf>.
* DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) patents. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/keytruda>.