Opdivo

Term: OpdivoDefinition: Opdivo (nivolumab) is an immunotherapy drug used to treat certain cancers, including those potentially caused by asbestos exposure, by helping the immune system attack cancer cells.Phonetic Pronunciation: (op-DEE-vo)Origin: The name "Opdivo" is a proprietary name created by Bristol-Myers Squibb, the pharmaceutical company that developed the drug. The term "nivolumab" is derived from the scientific nomenclature, combining "nivo" (from "nivus," Latin for snow, possibly referring to the drug's purity or mechanism) and "mab," which stands for monoclonal antibody.Significance in Asbestos Context: Opdivo is significant in the context of asbestos-related diseases because it offers a treatment option for patients with malignant mesothelioma, a cancer strongly linked to asbestos exposure. It represents a shift towards immunotherapy as a viable treatment for asbestos-induced cancers, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life.Example Sentence: After being diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, the patient began treatment with Opdivo to help manage the cancer's progression.Related Terms: Immunotherapy, Nivolumab, Mesothelioma, Cancer Treatment, Asbestos-Related DiseaseNotes: - Opdivo is not a cure but can help control the growth of cancer cells. - It is often used in combination with other treatments. - Side effects can include fatigue, diarrhea, and skin reactions.