Cemiplimab (Libtayo)
What is Cemiplimab?
Cemiplimab (Libtayo) is an intravenous immunotherapy medication used for certain advanced skin cancers, especially cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and selected cases of advanced basal cell carcinoma. It is a checkpoint inhibitor and is generally prescribed and managed by an oncologist rather than a dermatologist, although dermatologists may help identify appropriate patients and remain involved in diagnosis, biopsy, and skin-related follow-up.
How does Cemiplimab work?
Cemiplimab works by blocking PD-1, a checkpoint protein that can limit the immune system’s ability to attack cancer cells. By blocking this pathway, it helps the immune system recognize and fight certain tumors more effectively.
What conditions is Cemiplimab used for in dermatology?
In dermatology-related care in conjunction with an oncologist, cemiplimab is used for metastatic or locally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma when curative surgery or curative radiation is not an option. It is also used as adjuvant treatment for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma at high risk of recurrence after surgery and radiation. In addition, it is used for locally advanced or metastatic basal cell carcinoma after prior hedgehog-pathway inhibitor treatment or when hedgehog-pathway inhibitor therapy is not appropriate.
What are possible side effects of Cemiplimab?
As with other checkpoint inhibitors, cemiplimab can cause immune-related side effects because it stimulates the immune system. These can affect the lungs, liver, intestines, endocrine glands, kidneys, and skin. Infusion reactions can also occur. Patients receiving cemiplimab are typically monitored closely by their oncology team.
How is Cemiplimab used?
Cemiplimab is given by intravenous infusion on a repeating schedule directed by the oncology team. Treatment duration depends on the cancer being treated, response to therapy, and whether side effects occur. Since this medication is usually part of oncology-directed care, patients typically receive it in an infusion center rather than through a standard dermatology office workflow.
Although this page focuses on skin-cancer uses, cemiplimab is also used in oncology outside of dermatology, including for certain non-small cell lung cancer settings. Because of that, it is best understood as a broader oncology drug that may also play an important role in advanced skin-cancer care.