Starting an Immunotherapy

Starting an immunotherapy

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Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors helps your immune system fight the cancer and aims to slow tumour growth, maintain your quality of life, and keep the cancer from spreading. Find out more about what to expect from your treatment in this video.

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Summary of key points

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Immunotherapy is usually given in a hospital, as an IV drip – which is also known as an infusion. The infusion takes about 30-60 minutes, and the care team will be there the entire time. The total time you will need to be at the hospital will vary, but you should be advised on this in advance.

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You can usually have something with you to keep you entertained, such as a book or a mobile phone, or you could chat to other people during your treatment.

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The most common side effects of immunotherapies in general include feeling tired, rash, diarrhoea, feeling or being sick, and itchy skin. It doesn’t mean you will get all or any of these. Be sure to speak with your care team if there is anything that worries you.

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It is completely natural to feel anxious and overwhelmed when starting your cancer treatment. If you need support, please ask your care team or speak with specialist charities like Melanoma UK, Macmillan or Mind.

Side effects of immunotherapy

If you’re starting treatment for advanced melanoma, it’s important that you’re aware of the potential side effects to look out for, how to report them and how they can be managed. Find out more in this video.

Finishing an Immunotherapy

Finishing your treatment can be overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel both relieved and anxious about the future. Your care team will still look after you after you’ve finished treatment. Find out more, including what help is available, in this video.

This content has been developed and fully funded by Bristol Myers Squibb. Created in collaboration with patients, healthcare professionals and melanoma charities.

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Summary of key points

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More Videos

Side effects of immunotherapy

If you’re starting treatment for advanced melanoma, it’s important that you’re aware of the potential side effects to look out for, how to report them and how they can be managed. Find out more in this video.

Finishing an Immunotherapy

Finishing your treatment can be overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel both relieved and anxious about the future. Your care team will still look after you after you’ve finished treatment. Find out more, including what help is available, in this video.