MySkinCancerTeam

Libtayo (cemiplimab) is an immunotherapy drug used to treat certain skin cancers, including advanced squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). It works by helping your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.

Because it activates the immune system, Libtayo can sometimes cause it to mistakenly Show Full Answer

Libtayo (cemiplimab) is an immunotherapy drug used to treat certain skin cancers, including advanced squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). It works by helping your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.

Because it activates the immune system, Libtayo can sometimes cause it to mistakenly attack healthy organs. These are called immune-related side effects, and they can affect several parts of the body, including:

- Lungs – inflammation (pneumonitis), causing cough or shortness of breath
- Liver – hepatitis, which may show up in blood tests
- Intestines – colitis, causing diarrhea or stomach pain
- Kidneys – nephritis, affecting how well they filter waste
- Skin – rashes or blistering
- Hormone-producing glands – such as the thyroid, pituitary, or adrenal glands

Most of these side effects are manageable if caught early, which is why regular monitoring during treatment is so important.

It's really worth having an open conversation with your oncologist or dermatologist about any new symptoms you notice while on Libtayo — even ones that seem minor. Early reporting can make a big difference in how quickly side effects are addressed.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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