Tislelizumab is a new type of cancer medicine that helps the body’s own immune system find and fight cancer cells. It’s part of a class of treatments called immunotherapy, and it's designed to treat various types of cancer such as lung cancer, head and neck cancer, liver cancer, and bladder cancer, among others.

It was first approved in China in 2019 and is currently being used globally through clinical trials and regulatory approvals for the treatment of specific cancers. In India, it is made available through authorized oncology treatment programs and specialists.

Tislelizumab is used to treat several cancers, especially when:

• The cancer has spread or come back after earlier treatments

• Standard chemotherapy or radiation therapy hasn’t worked well.

• The cancer is in organs like the lungs, liver, bladder, or head and neck area.

Doctors choose this medicine based on the specific type of cancer and the stage of the disease.

Our immune system typically fights infections and diseases, but cancer cells often evade detection and hide from the body. Tislelizumab removes this “shield” from cancer cells so the immune system can recognize and attack them.

It works by activating your body’s natural defense and helps it stay alert against the cancer. It does not attack cancer directly like chemotherapy, but guides the immune system to do the job.

Tislelizumab is given as a slow injection into a vein (IV infusion) in a hospital or cancer clinic.

• It is usually given once every 3 weeks, depending on the type of cancer.

• Each session may take 30 to 60 minutes.

• The dosage is determined by your body weight and overall health.

• Only a cancer specialist should decide the dosage and treatment schedule.

• You may need to stay for a short time after the infusion to monitor for any reactions.

It is not available as tablets or capsules and must be administered by a trained healthcare team.

Common Side Effects:

• Tiredness

• Skin rash or itching

• Fever or chills

• Feeling sick (nausea)

• Joint or muscle pain

• Cough or breathing discomfort
  
  

Serious Side Effects:

Tislelizumab boosts your immune system, so sometimes it may overreact and attack healthy parts of your body. Watch out for signs like:

• Chest pain or shortness of breath

• Severe diarrhea or belly pain

• Yellow eyes or skin (may be liver-related)

• Vision problems or confusion

• Sudden muscle weakness

Report any unusual or ongoing symptoms to your doctor immediately.

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding – it may harm the baby.

• If you have a history of autoimmune diseases (like lupus, thyroid problems, or colitis), inform your doctor before starting.

• You may need regular blood tests and scans during treatment to monitor your body’s response.

• Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter remedies and supplements.

• Avoid vaccinations during treatment unless your doctor says it’s safe.

• Do not start or stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.
  

• Stay well hydrated and eat a balanced diet to support your body.

• Be alert for any new symptoms, even if they seem small — early reporting helps avoid serious problems.

• Use sun protection, as skin may become sensitive.

• Avoid crowded places if your white blood cell count is low (your doctor will inform you)

• Keep all follow-up appointments, even if you feel fine.

• Always take someone with you during your infusion days in case you feel weak afterwards.

• Keep a notebook or app to track your symptoms and energy levels.

• Don’t compare your progress with others — response to this treatment varies from person to person.

• Let your doctor know if you’re feeling mentally or emotionally low — support is available.

• Wear comfortable clothes on infusion days and take snacks or water if allowed.

1. https://www.tevimbra.com/

2. https://beonemedicines.us/PDF/TEVIMBRAUSPI.pdf 

3. https://beonemedicines.us/PDF/TEVIMBRAUSMG.pdf 

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.