Summary: Pembrolizumab and Nivolumab are both PD-1 inhibitors approved for multiple oncology indications. Pembrolizumab shows higher response rates in melanoma, while Nivolumab has a broader label in lung cancer. Both have similar safety profiles, but cost and access may differ by region.
| Attribute |
Pembrolizumab |
Nivolumab |
| Efficacy (Melanoma) |
45% ORR |
40% ORR |
| Efficacy (NSCLC) |
30% ORR |
35% ORR |
| FDA Approvals |
Melanoma, NSCLC, H&N, Bladder |
Melanoma, NSCLC, RCC, HCC |
| Adverse Events |
Fatigue, Rash, Colitis |
Fatigue, Rash, Pneumonitis |
| Cost (per cycle) |
$9,800 |
$8,900 |
| Global Access |
Available in 80+ countries |
Available in 70+ countries |
- PD-1 inhibitor
- First approved: 2014
- Key indications: Melanoma, NSCLC, H&N
- Common AEs: Fatigue, Rash, Colitis
- Manufacturer: Merck
- PD-1 inhibitor
- First approved: 2014
- Key indications: Melanoma, NSCLC, RCC
- Common AEs: Fatigue, Rash, Pneumonitis
- Manufacturer: Bristol Myers Squibb