stage 4 with brain metasties i have been a good immunotherapy responder with no change in mri or cts in almost 2 years despite inital poor prognosis but im told my pembro will stop at 2 years and i will continue to be observed with mris and cts why? im tolertating the pembro ok it makes me nervous to stop it do i change to another treatment if lesions change? thank yiu
Hello Aquababe,
Thank you for getting in touch and welcome to our Online Community.
I’m Elise, one of the cancer information nurses.
We’re pleased to read that you’ve responded well to immunotherapy and it’s understandable to question why Pembrolizumab will stop at 2 years.
The use of pembrolizumab for advanced melanoma came as a result of a large study called KEYNOTE-006 and this clinical trial specified a maximum treatment duration of 24 months.
As you know, NICE authorises treatment options in NHS England and Wales, and you can read more about the decision-making process and the evidence gathered on Pembrolizumab here which includes treatment duration.
NICE also publish the treatment options for people with advanced melanoma which is what your consultant will follow and can discuss your options with you which may include clinical trials.
Being nervous about stopping a particular medication is a worrying time for anyone affected by cancer and I’m sure the members of our melanoma Online Community can share their experience and offer some support if you think that would be helpful.
You’re also very welcome to call the support line to talk things through.
If you think it would be helpful to address how you’re managing uncertainty and everything else that cancer throws your way, we are working with BUPA to offer free counselling sessions for people living with cancer.
Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you have any more questions.
Best wishes,
Elise
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us.
Ref: ED/AM
