Nivolumab (Opdivo) Dilution for 240 mg Dose
240 mg of Opdivo (nivolumab) should be mixed in 24 mL of normal diluent (normal saline) for administration.
Preparation Guidelines for Nivolumab
Nivolumab is typically administered as an intravenous infusion after proper dilution. The preparation process follows specific guidelines to ensure proper dosing and administration:
Dilution Calculation
- The standard concentration for nivolumab administration is 10 mg/mL
- For a 240 mg dose, the required volume is:
- 240 mg ÷ 10 mg/mL = 24 mL of normal saline
Administration Considerations
- Nivolumab is typically administered as an intravenous infusion over 30 minutes
- The diluted solution should be clear to opalescent, colorless to pale yellow
- Inspect visually for particulate matter or discoloration before administration
Clinical Context
The 240 mg fixed dose of nivolumab is a standard dosing regimen approved for multiple indications. This dosing approach offers several advantages:
- Pharmacokinetic modeling shows that 240 mg every 2 weeks provides similar exposure to the weight-based 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks dosing 1
- The 240 mg dose has been studied extensively and demonstrates consistent efficacy and safety profiles across multiple tumor types 2
- In clinical trials, nivolumab at this dose has shown substantial and durable clinical responses 3
Important Considerations
- Always follow institutional protocols for preparation and administration of biologic agents
- The diluted solution should be administered through an intravenous line containing a sterile, non-pyrogenic, low protein binding in-line filter
- Avoid mixing nivolumab with other medications in the same infusion line
By following these guidelines for proper dilution of nivolumab, you can ensure accurate dosing and optimal treatment outcomes for patients receiving this immunotherapy.