nivolumab + gemcitabine + nab-paclitaxel

The combination of **nivolumab** (a PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor monoclonal antibody), **gemcitabine** (a nucleoside analog antimetabolite), and **nab-paclitaxel** (albumin-bound paclitaxel, a microtubule inhibitor) is an investigational regimen primarily studied for the treatment of advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer. The rationale for combining these agents is that cytotoxic chemotherapy (gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel) may enhance immune responses by increasing tumor antigen release and modulating the tumor microenvironment, potentially sensitizing tumors to immunotherapy with nivolumab. Clinical studies, including phase 1 and 2 trials, have assessed safety and early efficacy signals: PD-1 blockade (such as nivolumab) plus gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel has demonstrated encouraging activity and manageable toxicity in pancreatic cancer, with some studies suggesting improved progression-free and overall survival over chemotherapy alone, though results are not entirely consistent across trials[1][2][3].

Brand names

OpdivoAbraxaneGemzar

Other names

PD-1 inhibitor + albumin-bound paclitaxel + 2',2'-difluorodeoxycytidine