Side affects Nivo immunotherapy

[John2535]

I am on a long program ofam  immunotherapy, Nivo for malignant Melanoma. I am suffering severe side affects.  Joint pain in shoulders ,knees, fingers and more.Steroids have cleared but I cannot continue to take them. Pain killers do not work,eg Ibrofen. Nighttime is  the big issue and lack of sleep. Can anyone  suggest some form of solution.  Thanks.

[Lynne05]

• Hi John, I too suffer from joint pains from immunotherapy (ipilimumab and nivolumab). I finished my treatment in October 2023. My oncologist referred me to a rheumatologist and I was diagnosed with arthritis (probably caused by the immunotherapy).I have tried a variety of medications to ease my pain. The most effective has been Cosentyx.
• I’m not sure whether they will prescribe this if you are still on treatment though as it is designed to slow down your immune system which is the opposite of what immunotherapy does.
• hope this gives you another avenue to explore