Introduction
Immunotherapy has transformed the way doctors treat cancer, offering new hope where traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation may fall short.
Instead of directly killing cancer cells, immunotherapy empowers your own immune system to recognize and attack them. From lung and bladder cancers to melanoma, lymphoma, and rare blood cancers, several advanced immunotherapy drugs are now available in India.
While these treatments can be life-changing, they also come with side effects and high costs.
This guide will help patients and families understand commonly used immunotherapy medicines, their benefits, challenges, and financial support options.
For the best immunotherapy treatment in Chennai contact Jus’Onco clinic today.
1. Atezolizumab: An Immunotherapy Option for Advanced Cancer
What is Atezolizumab for?
Atezolizumab is an immunotherapy medicine used to treat several types of advanced cancers, including:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)
- Urothelial (bladder) cancer
- Triple-negative breast cancer
- Liver cancer (HCC)
It is usually given when the cancer has spread or come back after other treatments, or sometimes in combination with chemotherapy as a first treatment.
How does it work?
Atezolizumab is a type of immunotherapy called a PD-L1 inhibitor.
It works by helping your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Normally, cancer cells hide from the immune system using a protein called PD-L1. Atezolizumab blocks this “shield,” allowing the body’s T-cells to kill the cancer cells.
Common side effects:
Most people tolerate it well, but side effects can happen:
- Tiredness
- Cough
- Loss of appetite
- Skin rash or itching
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Low thyroid levels
Rarely, it can cause the immune system to attack normal organs (called immune-related side effects), like:
- Pneumonitis (lung inflammation)
- Hepatitis (liver inflammation)
- Colitis (bowel inflammation)
- Hormone gland issues (thyroid, adrenal)
These side effects can be serious but are usually treatable if caught early. Always inform your doctor if you feel unwell.
How is it given?
Atezolizumab is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, usually once every 2 to 4 weeks. The treatment schedule depends on the cancer type.
What is the cost in india?
Atezolizumab can be expensive. The cost per dose may range from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹3.5 lakh, depending on body weight and the number of cycles. Some hospitals offer discounted or generic versions under specific access programs.
Is financial help available?
Yes. Patients can get support through:
- Company-based patient assistance programs
- NGOs and cancer support organizations
- Ayushman Bharat and state government insurance schemes
Final message:
Atezolizumab is a powerful tool in the fight against advanced cancers. It may help patients live longer with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. If your oncologist recommends it, ask about eligibility, expected benefits, and financial aid options.
Let your immune system help in the fight — with the power of immunotherapy.
Take control of your journey, consult the experts at our affordable cancer clinic in Chennai today!
2. Avelumab: An Immunotherapy Drug That Helps Your Immune System Fight Cancer
What is Avelumab used for?
Avelumab is an immunotherapy drug used to treat several types of cancers, including:
- Merkel cell carcinoma (a rare skin cancer)
- Urothelial cancer (bladder and urinary tract)
- Non-small cell lung cancer (in some cases)
It is usually used when the cancer is advanced or has come back after other treatments.
How does it work?
Avelumab is a type of immunotherapy called a PD-L1 inhibitor. It helps your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Normally, cancer hides from your immune system using a “shield” called PD-L1. Avelumab blocks this shield, so your immune system can see and kill the cancer.
How is it given?
Avelumab is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, usually once every 2 weeks. Each session takes around 1 hour at a hospital or cancer clinic.
Common side effects:
While most people tolerate it well, side effects can happen due to your immune system becoming more active. These may include:
- Tiredness
- Skin rash or itching
- Fever or chills
- Diarrhoea
- Joint or muscle pain
Sometimes, the immune system may attack healthy organs like the lungs, liver, or thyroid. These are rare but serious and need prompt treatment.
What is the cost in India?
Avelumab is a high-cost medicine. In India, it may cost around ₹2 to ₹2.5 lakh per month, depending on the dose and hospital. Prices may vary if generic or biosimilar options are available.
Are any patient support programs available?
Yes:
- The manufacturing company often runs patient assistance programs (PAPs) for eligible patients.
- Some hospitals and cancer foundations may offer financial help.
- Government schemes like Ayushman Bharat can sometimes cover part of the treatment at approved centers.
Avelumab gives new hope to patients with certain difficult-to-treat cancers. It may help control cancer and improve survival with fewer side effects than chemotherapy. If your oncologist recommends immunotherapy, ask whether Avelumab is suitable for your case — and always explore financial support options available to you.
3.Cemiplimab: A New Immunotherapy for Advanced Skin and Lung Cancers
What is Cemiplimab used for?
Cemiplimab is an immunotherapy medicine used to treat:
- Advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) – a serious form of skin cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) – in patients whose cancer cannot be removed by surgery or has spread
- Basal cell carcinoma – in certain cases where other treatments do not work
It is often used when surgery or radiation is not possible, or when cancer has returned.
How does it work?
Cemiplimab is a PD-1 inhibitor, which means it boosts your immune system’s ability to fight cancer. Normally, cancer cells hide from the immune system using the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Cemiplimab blocks this “invisibility cloak” so that immune cells can recognize and kill the cancer cells.
How is it given?
It is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion once every 3 weeks, in a hospital or cancer centre. Each session usually takes 30–60 minutes.
Common side effects:
Since it activates the immune system, some patients may experience:
- Fatigue
- Skin rash or itching
- Diarrhoea
- Cough or shortness of breath
- Joint pain
- Low thyroid hormone levels
In rare cases, the immune system may attack normal organs like the lungs, liver, or intestines. These side effects are usually manageable with steroids and other supportive care if caught early.
What is the cost in India?
Cemiplimab is a newer and high-cost drug. The approximate cost in India is ₹2.5 to ₹3 lakh per month, depending on body weight and dose. Prices may reduce slightly if biosimilars become available.
Are there any financial support options?
Yes:
- Some pharmaceutical companies provide Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs).
- Certain cancer hospitals and foundations offer partial financial help.
- Government schemes like Ayushman Bharat may cover treatment in empanelled hospitals.
Cemiplimab is a powerful immunotherapy drug that offers hope to patients with certain aggressive skin and lung cancers. It can improve survival and quality of life with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. If your oncologist recommends immunotherapy, ask if Cemiplimab is an option and explore available cost-reduction programs.
4. Durvalumab: An Immunotherapy Boost After Chemoradiation for Lung and Bladder Cancer
What is Durvalumab used for?
Durvalumab is an immunotherapy medicine used to treat certain types of cancer. It is commonly given in:
- Stage 3 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): After chemotherapy and radiation, if the cancer hasn’t spread.
- Bladder cancer (urothelial carcinoma): In advanced stages when other treatments have not worked.
Durvalumab helps improve survival by preventing the cancer from returning or progressing.
How does it work?
Durvalumab is a PD-L1 inhibitor, which means it blocks a protein that cancer cells use to hide from the immune system. Once blocked, your immune cells can better recognize and kill the cancer cells. It strengthens your natural defense without harming normal cells.
How is it given?
It is given as an IV drip once every 2 or 4 weeks, depending on the dose. Each infusion takes about 1 hour and is usually done in a hospital setting.
Common side effects:
Durvalumab is generally well-tolerated, but some people may have:
- Tiredness or weakness
- Cough or breathing trouble
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rash or itching
- Low thyroid or adrenal hormone levels
In rare cases, it can cause inflammation in the lungs, liver, intestines, or other organs. These immune-related side effects can usually be managed if treated early.
What is the cost in India?
Durvalumab treatment costs around ₹1.5 to ₹2.5 lakh per infusion in India. The total cost depends on how many doses are given (usually up to 12 months of treatment). Generic or biosimilar options may reduce the cost in the future.
Is financial support available?
Yes, support is available for eligible patients:
- Pharma companies offer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) that reduce the cost.
- NGOs and cancer support foundations may help with partial funding.
- Ayushman Bharat and CMCHIS (Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme) may cover costs in selected hospitals.
Durvalumab is a game-changing immunotherapy, especially for lung cancer patients after chemoradiation. It helps improve survival and offers a new option for those who previously had few choices. If your doctor suggests it, talk about the cost and support programs — help is available.
5. Elotuzumab: A Targeted Immunotherapy for Multiple Myeloma
What is Elotuzumab used for?
Elotuzumab is an immunotherapy used to treat multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. It is usually given to patients who have already received one or more lines of treatment. Elotuzumab is used in combination with other medicines like lenalidomide or pomalidomide and dexamethasone.
How does it work?
Elotuzumab is a monoclonal antibody — a type of drug that helps the immune system find and attack cancer cells. It targets a protein called SLAMF7, found on myeloma cells, and activates natural killer (NK) cells to destroy them.
Common side effects:
While Elotuzumab is generally well tolerated, some side effects may include:
• Tiredness or weakness
• Fever or chills during infusion
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Muscle or joint pain
• Low blood counts (risk of infection or anemia)
These are manageable and your doctor will monitor you during and after infusions.
How is it given?
It is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, typically once a week during the initial cycles and then less frequently later.
Cost in India:
Elotuzumab can cost around ₹1.5 to ₹2.5 lakhs per month depending on dose, combination, and hospital charges. Generic or biosimilar options may be available at a lower price.
Patient Assistance:
- Some pharma companies offer co-pay or access programs.
- You may also explore Ayushman Bharat or other government health insurance schemes.
- Certain cancer NGOs offer financial support for myeloma patients.
Elotuzumab is a valuable addition to multiple myeloma treatment — offering longer disease control when other treatments have failed. Talk to your oncologist to see if it’s right for your treatment plan.
Take control of your journey, consult the experts at our affordable cancer clinic in Chennai today!
6. Glofitamab: A New Hope for Lymphoma Patients
What is Glofitamab used for?
Glofitamab is an advanced immunotherapy approved for relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) — a type of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma — especially when previous treatments have not worked.
How does it work?
Glofitamab is a bispecific antibody. That means it binds to both CD3 (on T-cells) and CD20 (on lymphoma cells), bringing the immune cells close to the cancer cells and helping the body kill the cancer more effectively.
Common side effects:
- Cytokine release syndrome (fever, low BP, chills)
- Low blood counts (WBCs, RBCs, platelets)
- Infection
- Headache or fatigue
- Liver enzyme changes
Doctors carefully monitor patients, especially during the first few doses, and manage side effects with supportive care.
How is it given?
Glofitamab is given as an IV infusion, usually in a hospital setting under close observation, especially during the first few cycles.
Cost in India:
As a newer immunotherapy, Glofitamab can be expensive — costing ₹3 to ₹5 lakhs per cycle, depending on the hospital and dosage schedule.
Patient Assistance:
- Limited patient access programs may be available through special permission or clinical trials.
- Some international NGOs and government-subsidized hospitals may offer support.
- Check with your oncologist or cancer center for options.
Glofitamab represents a breakthrough for difficult-to-treat lymphoma. If previous treatments haven’t worked, this innovative option could offer renewed hope and longer survival. Always ask about eligibility and access support.
7.Ipilimumab: Boosting the Immune System Against Cancer
What is Ipilimumab used for?
Ipilimumab is an immunotherapy used to treat several cancers including melanoma, lung cancer, kidney cancer, and liver cancer. It is especially used when the cancer has spread (advanced or metastatic stage) or has come back after earlier treatment.
How does it work?
Ipilimumab is a checkpoint inhibitor. It blocks a protein called CTLA-4, which normally puts the brakes on the immune system. By blocking CTLA-4, Ipilimumab helps your immune system stay active and attack cancer cells more strongly.
It is often used in combination with another immunotherapy called Nivolumab (which works by blocking PD-1) to give better results in some cancers.
Common side effects:
As with other immunotherapies, Ipilimumab can cause the immune system to attack normal organs. Common side effects include:
• Tiredness
• Skin rash or itching
• Diarrhea or colitis (inflammation of the bowel)
• Liver problems (seen in blood tests)
• Hormonal imbalances (thyroid or adrenal glands)
Most side effects can be managed if caught early. It’s very important to report new symptoms quickly to your doctor.
How is it given?
Ipilimumab is given as an IV infusion, usually every 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the treatment plan.
Cost in India:
Ipilimumab is quite costly — approximately ₹4 to ₹6 lakhs per cycle, especially when combined with other drugs. Some hospitals may have subsidized access or discounts.
Patient assistance:
- The manufacturing company sometimes offers financial aid for eligible patients.
- Patients may benefit from government insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat.
- Certain NGOs and cancer foundations also help with high-cost immunotherapies.
Ipilimumab is a powerful drug that can help the immune system fight even advanced cancers. While side effects can occur, they are manageable with good care. Ask your oncologist if this treatment is right for you.
8. Mogamulizumab: A New Option for Certain Blood Cancers
What is Mogamulizumab used for?
Mogamulizumab is a newer type of immunotherapy used for certain rare blood cancers like:
• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL)
• Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL)
It’s typically given when other treatments have not worked, or if the disease has come back after chemotherapy.
How does it work?
Mogamulizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets a protein called CCR4, found on the surface of some cancerous T-cells. By binding to this protein, the drug helps the immune system recognize and destroy the cancer cells.
Common side effects:
- Infusion-related reactions (fever, chills, rash)
- Tiredness
- Skin rash or dryness
- Infections (due to low immunity)
- Diarrhea or liver enzyme changes
Your doctor will monitor you during and after each infusion to manage any side effects.
How is it given?
Mogamulizumab is given as a slow IV infusion, usually once a week for the first month, and then less frequently after that.
Cost in India:
The monthly cost may range between ₹3 to ₹5 lakhs, depending on the number of infusions and the dose.
Patient assistance:
- Some manufacturers offer access programs for rare cancers.
- Financial support may also be available through specialized cancer centers or charities focused on lymphoma and leukemia care.
For patients with difficult-to-treat blood cancers, Mogamulizumab offers a targeted and effective treatment. Early access to this medicine and proper monitoring can lead to better outcomes with fewer complications.
Take control of your journey, consult the experts at our affordable can
Take control of your journey, consult the experts at our affordable cancer clinic in Chennai today!
9. Mosunetuzumab: A Cutting-Edge Therapy for Lymphoma
What is Mosunetuzumab used for?
Mosunetuzumab is a bispecific antibody used in the treatment of relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), especially follicular lymphoma. It is used when the cancer has not responded to previous treatments.
How does it work?
Mosunetuzumab is unique because it binds to two targets at the same time:
- CD3 on T-cells (a type of immune cell), and
- CD20 on cancerous B-cells.
This brings the immune cells close to the cancer cells and helps the body destroy the cancer more effectively — like connecting the army (T-cells) directly to the enemy (cancer cells).
Common side effects:
- Cytokine Release Syndrome (fever, low BP, chills — especially during first doses)
- Headache or dizziness
- Low blood counts (risk of infection or bleeding)
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea or nausea
Doctors usually give pre-medications and closely monitor patients to reduce the risk of severe reactions.
How is it given?
Mosunetuzumab is given as a hospital-based IV infusion, often over several hours. The dose may be given in cycles, depending on response and tolerance.
Cost in India:
As a newer drug, Mosunetuzumab can cost ₹4 to ₹6 lakhs per treatment cycle. Access may be limited to select cancer hospitals or clinical trial centers.
Patient assistance:
- Early access programs or clinical trial enrollments may help eligible patients.
- Ask your doctor about compassionate use programs or assistance through government or NGO channels.
Mosunetuzumab is one of the most promising new therapies for patients whose lymphoma has returned after multiple treatments. If you or a loved one is running out of options, this drug could provide a second chance at remission.
10. Nivolumab – A widely used immunotherapy for many advanced cancers
What is it used for?
Nivolumab is an immunotherapy medicine used to treat many types of cancer, including lung, kidney, bladder, head and neck, skin (melanoma), and some blood cancers. It is often given when chemotherapy doesn’t work or as a first-line treatment in some cases.
How does it work?
Nivolumab is a PD-1 blocker. It helps the body’s immune system find and kill cancer cells by removing the “brake” on T-cells.
Common side effects:
- Tiredness
- Skin rash or itching
- Diarrhea or stomach upset
- Joint pain
- In rare cases, inflammation of lungs, liver, or thyroid
Approximate cost in India:
₹1.5 to ₹2.5 lakh per dose (every 2–4 weeks depending on the case)
Patient assistance:
- Support programs by the manufacturer
- Financial aid through NGOs
- Help through Ayushman Bharat and some state schemes
Nivolumab offers a new hope for patients who didn’t respond well to chemotherapy. It can improve survival with fewer side effects. If your doctor suggests it, explore cost support options early.
11. Pembrolizumab – A PD-1 inhibitor used for many solid tumors
What is it used for?
Pembrolizumab is used in many cancers including lung, head and neck, stomach, liver, cervical, bladder, and skin cancers (melanoma).
How does it work?
It boosts the body’s immune response by blocking the PD-1 protein, allowing immune cells to find and attack cancer.
Common side effects:
- Feeling tired
- Skin rash or dry skin
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Hormone changes like thyroid problems
- Rare inflammation of lungs, liver, or other organs
Approximate cost in India:
₹2 lakh to ₹3 lakh per injection (every 3–6 weeks depending on body weight)
Patient assistance:
- Available through the company’s India support program
- Help from Jus’Onco partner NGOs
- Covered in select government insurance plans
Pembrolizumab is one of the most widely used immunotherapy drugs and works well in many types of cancer. With proper support and monitoring, it can be life-extending and life-improving.
12. Relatlimab – A new LAG-3 checkpoint blocker used in melanoma
What is it used for?
Relatlimab is mainly used in advanced melanoma. It is usually given with Nivolumab to improve response.
How does it work?
It blocks a protein called LAG-3, which slows down immune cells. When combined with PD-1 blockers like Nivolumab, it boosts the body’s cancer-fighting power.
Common side effects:
- Fatigue
- Muscle or joint pain
- Skin rash
- Diarrhea
- Autoimmune side effects (rare)
Approximate cost in India:
Estimated ₹3 lakh per cycle (as part of combination therapy)
Patient assistance:
- Limited availability currently
- Future access through expanded programs expected
- Clinical trial access may also be possible
Relatlimab represents a newer, more advanced form of immunotherapy for difficult cancers like melanoma. If offered to you, explore all support options to access it safely and affordably.
13. Retifanlimab – A PD-1 immunotherapy for rare cancers
What is it used for?
Retifanlimab is approved for certain rare cancers like anal cancer and Merkel cell carcinoma. It may be considered in other cancers as well.
How does it work?
It blocks PD-1 on immune cells, helping them recognize and kill cancer cells.
Common side effects:
- Rash or skin irritation
- Diarrhea
- Cough or fever
- Risk of organ inflammation (rare)
Approximate cost in India:
Not widely available yet. Expected to cost ₹2–3 lakh per dose once launched.
Patient assistance:
- Early access programs may help
- NGO or clinical trial support possible in select centers
Retifanlimab is a newer treatment with potential in rare and aggressive cancers. If recommended, Jus’Onco can help explore treatment options and possible funding pathways.
14. Tremelimumab – A CTLA-4 blocker used in liver cancer and mesothelioma
What is it used for?
Tremelimumab is used along with Durvalumab for cancers like advanced liver cancer and pleural mesothelioma.
How does it work?
It removes a “brake” on the immune system by blocking the CTLA-4 checkpoint. This helps immune cells stay active against cancer cells.
Common side effects:
- Rash
- Joint or muscle pain
- Diarrhea
- Inflammation of organs like liver or colon (requires careful monitoring)
Approximate cost in India:
Combination therapy can cost ₹3–4 lakh per cycle depending on weight and duration
Patient assistance:
- AstraZeneca support programs may reduce cost
- Financial counselling and referral by Jus’Onco possible
- Covered in some public schemes for eligible patients
Tremelimumab, when combined with Durvalumab, is showing success in treating tough cancers. If your doctor advises this, early financial planning and monitoring are key.
Conclusion
Immunotherapy is reshaping cancer care by helping the body’s own immune system fight disease more effectively. While advanced treatments can be costly, patients deserve compassionate care and support.
Choosing an affordable cancer clinic in Chennai ensures access to expert oncologists, modern therapies, and financial guidance for better treatment outcomes.
Take control of your journey, consult the experts at our affordable cancer clinic in Chennai today!
1. What is immunotherapy, and how does it differ from chemotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Unlike chemotherapy, which directly kills cancer cells (and often healthy cells too), immunotherapy helps the immune system fight cancer more precisely, often with fewer side effects.
2. Who can benefit from immunotherapy treatments?
Immunotherapy is used for patients with advanced cancers such as lung, bladder, skin, breast, liver, and blood cancers. Eligibility depends on the type of cancer, its stage, previous treatments, and whether specific biomarkers (like PD-L1) are present in the tumor.
3. What are the common side effects of immunotherapy?
While generally well-tolerated, immunotherapy can sometimes overstimulate the immune system. Side effects include tiredness, skin rash, diarrhea, cough, or thyroid changes. Rare but serious immune-related reactions can affect the lungs, liver, intestines, or hormone glands, which require immediate medical attention.
4. How much does immunotherapy cost in Chennai?
Immunotherapy in India can cost between ₹1.5 to ₹6 lakhs per cycle, depending on the drug, dosage, and cancer type. However, many hospitals and an affordable cancer clinic in Chennai offer patient assistance programs, NGO support, and government insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat to reduce costs.
5. Can immunotherapy completely cure cancer?
Immunotherapy may not cure all cancers, but it can control disease progression, shrink tumors, improve survival rates, and enhance quality of life. In some cancers, such as melanoma and certain lung cancers, long-term remission is possible. Effectiveness depends on individual cases and cancer biology.