Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is a type of immunotherapy drug that helps the immune system fight cancer cells. It is used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck cancer, and bladder cancer. However, there are alternative treatments available for cancer patients who cannot take Keytruda or do not respond to it.

One alternative treatment to Keytruda is Opdivo (nivolumab), which is also an immunotherapy drug that works by blocking a protein called PD-1 on immune cells, allowing them to attack cancer cells more effectively. Opdivo is used to treat similar types of cancer as Keytruda and is often used as a second-line treatment when Keytruda does not work.

Other alternative treatments to Keytruda include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and other types of immunotherapy drugs. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells, while radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. Targeted therapy drugs target specific proteins or genes in cancer cells to block their growth and spread. Other types of immunotherapy drugs, such as Yervoy (ipilimumab) and Tecentriq (atezolizumab), can also be used to treat certain types of cancer.

It is important to note that the best treatment for cancer depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and medical history. Patients should discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/biologics/tradename/KEYTRUDA
[2] https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/difference-between-opdivo-keytruda-3554241/
[3] https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/immunotherapy