Subcutaneous Immunotherapy for Cancer: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

This fact sheet explains subcutaneous (SC) immunotherapy for cancer. Subcutaneous means “under the skin.” With SC immunotherapy, cancer medicine is given as a small injection into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the stomach or thigh, instead of through an IV in a vein. These injections are given by a trained healthcare professional and usually take only a few minutes.

The resource describes how SC immunotherapy works in the body and how it compares to IV immunotherapy. Many SC treatments use the same medicines as IV forms, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, and are just as effective. The main difference is how the medicine is delivered. SC options may shorten treatment time, reduce the need for IV lines or ports, and make clinic visits easier for some patients.

This fact sheet also reviews possible side effects, including immune-related side effects and mild injection-site reactions, and explains when to contact your care team. You are a key partner in treatment decisions, and your preferences and goals matter.

Key Takeaways:

• Subcutaneous immunotherapy delivers cancer medicine through a small injection under the skin instead of an IV.
• SC injections usually take only a few minutes and are given by a healthcare professional.
• Many SC immunotherapy medicines are the same drugs used in IV treatment and work just as well.
• SC immunotherapy may reduce time in the clinic and limit the need for IV access.
• Talking with your care team can help you decide if SC immunotherapy fits your treatment plan and preferences

Authors/Reviewers: Dr. Vishal Patel, MD, Kristen Linney, RN, Patient perspective: Mike and Jodi

Sponsors and Partners: Merck, Pfizer, and Cervivor