KEYTRUDA QLEX pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph 165 mg/mL; 2000 U/mL Injection, Solution, 1 vial — NDC 00006-3083-01 package photo

KEYTRUDA QLEX pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph 165 mg/mL; 2000 U/mL Injection, Solution, 1 vial

by Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC · 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0006-3083-01) / 2.4 mL in 1 VIAL (0006-3083-99)
NDC 00006-3083-01
🏷️ FDA NDC (as labeled) 0006-3083-01 billing pads the labeler segment with a zero
Rx only Brand On market Non-controlled
🗂️ Data synced Sep 3, 2026 · sources: openFDA · FDA label (DailyMed) · FDA Orange & Purple Book · First Databank · CMS NADAC, ASP, Medicare & Medicaid · RxNorm
📋 All sources & update times →

🆔 Identity & classification

FDA NDC (as labeled) 0006-3083-01
Product NDC 0006-3083
11-digit billing NDC 00006308301
NCPDP billing unit ML — per mL (volume)
RxCUI 2723762, 2723769, 2723771, 2723772
UNII DPT0O3T46P, 9X4R4A4HQQ
Application # BLA761467
SPL Set ID 097d166f-b73b-41d3-9b37-7653cd2a0c41
Established class (EPC) Programmed Death Receptor-1 Blocking Antibody; Endoglycosidase
Mechanism of action Programmed Death Receptor-1-directed Antibody Interactions
Chemical class Glycoside Hydrolases
DEA schedule Non-controlled
Marketing category BLA
Marketing status On market
FDA listing status Listed (active directory)
Marketing start 2025-09-19
Route SUBCUTANEOUS
Dosage form INJECTION, SOLUTION
Substance PEMBROLIZUMAB; BERAHYALURONIDASE ALFA
GCN Seq No 088267
GCN 58374
HICL code 050902
Ingredient (HICL) Pembrolizum-Berahyaluron-Pmph
HIC1 code V
Therapeutic class — broad (HIC1) Neoplasms
HIC2 code V3
Therapeutic class — intermediate (HIC2) Antineoplastic Drugs (Continued 1)
HIC3 code V3R
Therapeutic class — specific (HIC3) Antineoplastic,Anti-Programmed Death-1 (Pd-1) Mab
AHFS code 10:00.00.00
AHFS class Antineoplastic Agents
FDB label name KEYTRUDA QLEX 395 MG-4800 UNIT
FDB brand name Keytruda Qlex
Legend status F — Federal legend — prescription drug or device
Biologic (Purple Book) 351(a)
Why two NDCs? The FDA registers this code as 0006-3083-01 — a 4-4-2 layout, and that's what's printed on the package and shown on DailyMed. For insurance claims, every NDC is standardized to a uniform 11-digit 5-4-2 format by adding a zero to the labeler segment → 00006-3083-01. Same drug, same package — only the format differs.
Where does this data come from?
Identifiers from the FDA openFDA NDC Directory and Structured Product Labeling; RxCUI from RxNorm (NLM); GPI from Medi-Span; GCN / HIC / AHFS / legend from First Databank.

🏷️ RxNorm drug class

This medicine belongs to the Programmed Death Receptor-1 Blocking Antibody class.

Pharmacologic class Programmed Death Receptor-1 Blocking Antibody
Drug family (ATC) PD-1/PD-L1 (Programmed cell death protein 1/death ligand 1) inhibitors
How it works Programmed Death Receptor-1-directed Antibody Interactions
Where does this data come from?
Therapeutic classes from RxNorm RxClass (U.S. National Library of Medicine) — Established Pharmacologic Class (FDA), ATC drug family (WHO) and mechanism of action, matched by this product’s RxCUI.

🏭 Manufacturer & labeler

LabelerMerck Sharp & Dohme LLC
FDA applicationBLA761467 (BLA)
Labeler code00006
First marketedSep 2025
Product typeHuman Prescription Drug
Portfolio112 products on file
The labeler markets the product; the application holder owns the FDA approval. They’re often the same company but can differ (e.g. a repackager or an authorized generic). A mailing address / phone appears here when the manufacturer includes it in the product’s FDA label (not all do).
Where does this data come from?
Labeler, application holder and registered establishment from the FDA openFDA NDC Directory and Drugs@FDA; address/contact from the product’s FDA label.

🩺 Clinical

Label name KEYTRUDA QLEX 395 MG-4800 UNIT Ingredient Pembrolizum-Berahyaluron-Pmph
📖 What it is MedlinePlus · NLM

Pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph injection is used treat a variety of solid tumors and soft tissue cancers. Pembrolizumab injection is in a class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. It works by helping your immune system to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. Berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph is an endoglycosidase. It helps to keep pembrolizumab in the body longer so that the medication will have a greater effect.

Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗
Where does this data come from?
Plain-language summary from MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine); supplement & herbal interactions and nutrient depletion data from the Natural Medicines database; our full guide is HelloPharmacist editorial content.

🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients

Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.

💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.

  • 0.3 mg / 1 mL UNII 4QD397987E
    An amino acid used as a buffer and stabilizer in medications. It helps maintain the pH balance and protects the active drug from breaking down during storage and use.
  • 1.7 mg / 1 mL UNII X573657P6P
    Histidine monohydrochloride monohydrate is an amino acid salt used as a buffer in medicines. It helps maintain the proper acidity level of liquid formulations to keep the drug stable and effective.
  • 1.5 mg / 1 mL UNII AE28F7PNPL
    Methionine is an amino acid used as a nutrient supplement and pH buffer in medicines. It helps stabilize the formulation and supports the product's overall composition.
  • 0.2 mg / 1 mL UNII 6OZP39ZG8H
    Polysorbate 80 is a synthetic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and oleic acid. It helps mix oil and water-based ingredients together in medications and improves how the product disperses in the body.
  • 70 mg / 1 mL UNII C151H8M554
    A natural sugar derived from sugar cane or sugar beets. It's used as a sweetener, filler, and binder to improve taste, add bulk, and help hold tablet or capsule ingredients together.
  • UNII 059QF0KO0R
    Water is a liquid solvent that dissolves and mixes ingredients together in liquid medicines, syrups, and injections. It helps distribute the active drug evenly throughout the product.

6 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.

Where does this data come from?
Data sourced from official FDA Structured Product Labeling (SPL) via DailyMedingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.

Inactive ingredient FAQ

Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
No. Inactive ingredients can differ by manufacturer, dosage form, strength, and package / product version.
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Some SPLs do not provide a complete structured inactive-ingredient list, and older or unusual labels may only include the information in narrative text.
Can inactive ingredients matter?
Yes. They can matter for allergies, intolerances, dyes, gluten / lactose concerns, preservatives, and formulation differences — but confirm with a pharmacist or the manufacturer when it’s clinically important.

💲 Pricing

A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.

Price systemPer mLPer package
Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly Not in the retail survey — common for institutional, discontinued, or low-volume packs.
Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo No recent Medicaid claims on file for this NDC — rare and low-volume NDCs are suppressed in the public data.
Medicare drug plans payPart D · quarterly No Part D plan price is available for this NDC in our data.
Medicare Part B allowsASP · J9277 $31.940 / J9277 unit
Where does this data come from?
NADAC (National Average Drug Acquisition Cost) is the CMS weekly pharmacy-acquisition-cost survey — what pharmacies pay. ASP (Average Sales Price) is the CMS Medicare Part B drug-payment file, published quarterly. Medicaid pays is computed by us from CMS State Drug Utilization Data (total reimbursed ÷ units, trailing 12 months) — gross of rebates and inclusive of dispensing fees, so it reflects what Medicaid paid, not an acquisition cost. Medicare drug plans pay is the median negotiated point-of-sale unit cost across plans listing this NDC in the CMS quarterly Prescription Drug Plan pricing files, before rebates. The VA pays is the federal contract price (FSS, and the statutory Big 4 ceiling where listed) from the VA National Acquisition Center pharmaceutical price file. All are free public government data; each measures a different payer, so the figures are not directly comparable.

🧾 Billing & reimbursement

FDA NDC (as labeled)0006-3083-01
11-digit billing NDC00006-3083-01
Format4-4-2 as registered → padded to 5-4-2 for billing (zero added to the labeler segment)
HCPCS J-codeJ9277
DescriptorINJECTION, PEMBROLIZUMAB, 1 MG AND BERAHYALURONIDASE ALFA-PMPH
Billing units / pkg164.58 units
Crosswalk sourcePDAC NDC-HCPCS crosswalk (DME MAC / DMEPOS)
Where does this data come from?
The HCPCS J-code crosswalk comes from the CMS ASP NDC-HCPCS crosswalk and the DMEPDAC (DME MAC) NDC-HCPCS crosswalk — free public CMS data. Billing units are derived from the code’s descriptor and the package amount.

🔁 Therapeutic equivalents

ProductLabelerPackNADAC/unitTEStatusPrice vs. this
Keytruda Qlex 165 mg/mL; 2000 U/mLthis 00006-3083-01 Merck 1 vial FDA listed
Keytruda Qlex 165 mg/mL; 2000 U/mL 00006-5083-01 Merck 1 vial FDA listed
About this product: this is a biologic. Biologics don't have small-molecule generics — competition comes from FDA-licensed biosimilars (shown above), not generics.
Where does this data come from?
Equivalents are other NDCs of the same ingredient, form and route from the openFDA NDC Directory, ranked least-expensive-first by NADAC. Therapeutic-equivalence (AB) ratings come from the FDA Orange Book; biologics use the FDA Purple Book for biosimilar & interchangeable status.

Availability & biosimilar status

🏛️
2025
First FDA approval
Sep 2025
📍
2026
Currently FDA-listed
1 year listed
🛡️
2037
Latest patent/protection listed
not a guaranteed launch date
🧬Biologic — competition comes from biosimilars

Biologics have no small-molecule generics; biosimilar competition is tracked in the FDA Purple Book.

🛡️ Latest patent/protection date listed: FDA patent/protection data lists protections through Sep 2037. This may affect when biosimilars become widely available, but it is not a guaranteed launch date.
📅 FDA approved Sep 19, 2025 ⏳ ~11 yr to latest listed protection

Why the date isn’t exact: Biosimilar timing can change because patents may be challenged, settled, licensed, added or removed, and litigation can move the real date earlier or later.

FDA Purple Book — biosimilars & interchangeables
🔒 No FDA-licensed biosimilars or interchangeable biosimilars are listed yet for this biologic. It currently has no biosimilar competition in the FDA Purple Book.
Source: FDA Purple Book (purplebooksearch.fda.gov), matched on the reference product’s active ingredient.
Patents & exclusivity — FDA Purple Book
Exclusivity RefProduct
2025 2027 2029 2031 2033 2035 2037
Today
LOE
Biologic patent Exclusivity
🏛️Reference-product exclusivity
A flat 12 years of FDA market protection from first licensure. No biosimilar can be licensed before it ends — regardless of patents.
🧪Listed biologic patents
Patents the reference maker lists covering the molecule, formulation, or manufacturing. A biosimilar generally can’t launch until these resolve.
🔁Interchangeability
An interchangeable biosimilar may be substituted at the pharmacy (state laws vary). The first one can earn its own exclusivity period.
🛈 What do these terms mean?
Biologic patent
A patent the reference product’s maker has publicly listed. A biosimilar generally can’t launch until these expire — unless they’re invalidated or resolved in a settlement.
Reference-product exclusivity
A flat 12 years of FDA market protection from the biologic’s first licensure (the BPCIA). No biosimilar can be licensed before it ends, regardless of patents.
Interchangeable exclusivity
The first interchangeable biosimilar can earn a period as the only interchangeable version (pharmacists can substitute it without the prescriber).
Earliest biosimilar (LOE)
The latest of all the dates above — the soonest a biosimilar can realistically reach the market. Litigation and settlements can move it earlier.

Biologics have no small-molecule “generics” — competition comes from FDA-licensed biosimilars, tracked in the FDA Purple Book.

FDA exclusivity
CodeWhat it grantsExpires
RefProductReference-product exclusivity (12-year, BPCIA) — no biosimilar can be licensed before this dateSep 19, 2037
Common questions
Is there a biosimilar for KEYTRUDA QLEX 395 MG-4800 UNIT?
No FDA-licensed biosimilar is currently listed for this biologic in the FDA Purple Book.
Why do different websites show different biosimilar dates?
Biosimilar availability isn’t based on one single date. Some sources use the reference-product exclusivity, some use the last listed patent, and patent litigation, settlements, and licenses can all change the real-world launch date. This page shows the underlying Purple Book dates so you can see why estimates differ.
Can a biosimilar launch before the last patent expires?
Sometimes. A biosimilar maker may settle with the reference manufacturer or receive a license to launch earlier. In other cases, the last listed protection delays competition.
What does “current Purple Book estimate” mean?
It means we’re using the latest patent and exclusivity dates currently listed in the FDA Purple Book. It is not a guaranteed launch date.
What does “FDA listed” mean?
It means the product appears in the FDA’s official directory. That’s a good sign a product exists for the U.S. market, but on its own it does not confirm a pharmacy can get it today. Where we have recent retail pricing data, we label it “Availability likely” instead.
What does a patent or protection date mean here?
It’s the latest date currently listed in the FDA Purple Book for a patent or exclusivity on the reference biologic. It can affect when a biosimilar becomes widely available — but it is not a guaranteed launch date. Settlements and licenses can move the real date earlier or later.
Built from the FDA Purple Book Patent List (patents the reference-product sponsor has publicly listed under the BPCIA) plus reference-product exclusivity. Biosimilars cannot launch until these clear; patent litigation and settlements can shift the real date. Biologics have no small-molecule generics — competition comes from FDA-licensed biosimilars, not the Orange Book.
Where does this data come from?
Patents and exclusivity from the FDA Purple Book (biologics), refreshed from public FDA data. Biosimilar launch timing is an estimate, not a guarantee.

📊 Medicare Part D spend CMS · PART D · 2026 (Q1)

Medicare Part D (outpatient prescription) spending for Keytruda Qlex — the program that covers self-administered drugs. 1 manufacturer.
⚠️ Drug-level data: CMS publishes Part D spending by drug, not by NDC — these figures combine every manufacturer, strength and package size sold under the name Keytruda Qlex. That’s a different level of aggregation than the Medicaid card above, which is specific to this exact 11-digit NDC (pack size included), so the two aren’t directly comparable.
Total Part D spend
$680.6K
Claims incl. refills
46
Beneficiaries
25
Spend / beneficiary
$27,223.95
Spend / claim
$14,795.62
💵 About the dollar figures: spending is what Part D plans paid before confidential manufacturer rebates, so the program’s real net cost is lower. A blank patient count means fewer than 11 people — CMS hides counts that small to protect privacy. Source: CMS Medicare Quarterly Part D Spending by Drug (data.cms.gov), updated quarterly.

📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product

Package NDCDescription Marketing startStatus
00006-3083-01 You're viewing this 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0006-3083-01) / 2.4 mL in 1 VIAL (0006-3083-99) 2025-09-19 Active

🧭 About this NDC listing & data coverage

Finished prescription product
What data is (and isn’t) available for this NDC — tap to expand
NDC identity (package / product / labeler codes) ✓ Available
Labeler ✓ Available
Product & package description ✓ Available
Marketing category & status ✓ Available
Active ingredient / dosage form / route ✓ Available
FDA label (SPL via DailyMed) ✓ Available
Package photos ✓ Available
Inactive ingredients (structured) ✓ Available
NADAC pharmacy acquisition price (CMS) — Not published for this NDC CMS publishes NADAC only for NDCs reported in its retail-pharmacy survey.
Orange Book / therapeutic-equivalence data ✓ Available
HCPCS J-code billing crosswalk ✓ Available
Medicaid utilization (CMS SDUD) — Not published for this NDC CMS reports utilization only for NDCs with Medicaid claims above its privacy threshold.
“Not published” reflects what the public FDA / CMS / NLM sources provide for this exact package code — it is a property of the data feeds, not a judgment about the product.

Questions about this listing

Why is there no price listed?
The pricing shown on our NDC pages comes from CMS NADAC, a voluntary survey of retail community pharmacy invoices. CMS does not publish a NADAC for every NDC — packages outside the retail survey (institutional and hospital products, bulk packages, discontinued items, and many OTC items) may never receive one. A missing price reflects the survey's scope, not this product's actual cost, and does not mean the product is free or unavailable.
Is the NDC printed on the package the same as the 11-digit billing NDC?
Yes, they identify this exact package in different formats. The FDA registers it as 0006-3083-01, which is what is printed on the packaging and shown on DailyMed. Insurance claims use a fixed 11-digit 5-4-2 format, so the short segment is padded with a leading zero: 00006-3083-01, written without dashes as 00006308301. The Identity section at the top of this page lists every form of this code.
What do the three segments of this NDC mean?
In 00006-3083-01, the first segment (00006) is the labeler code FDA assigned to Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC; the middle segment (3083) identifies this specific product — its ingredient, strength, and dosage form; and the last segment (01) identifies this exact package size and type. Together they name one specific package of one specific product.
Is this package still being marketed?
Yes, per the latest FDA NDC Directory data on this page: this package is listed as actively marketed, with no marketing end date reported by Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC. Listing status can change — the directory data on this page refreshes weekly.
Who lists this product with the FDA?
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC is the labeler of record for this NDC — the company under whose FDA-assigned code the package is listed. The labeler may be the manufacturer itself or a distributor marketing the product under its own code.
Do I need a prescription for this product?
This NDC is listed with FDA as a prescription product, so it is dispensed under a prescriber's order. Your pharmacist can tell you whether any over-the-counter forms of the same medication exist.
Does this product have a billing J-code?
Yes — this NDC cross-references HCPCS code J9277 for medical-claim billing (typically used when a product is administered in a clinical setting rather than dispensed at a retail pharmacy). See the Billing section on this page.
This page identifies an FDA-listed package (the NDC) and reports public regulatory and pricing data about the listing. It is reference information, not a medical recommendation — talk to your pharmacist or prescriber about your own medication.
Where does this data come from?
Listing facts (marketing category, packager status, marketing dates) from the FDA openFDA NDC Directory; label availability from DailyMed; pricing coverage from CMS NADAC; equivalence scope from the FDA Orange Book.

📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL

The complete FDA label for this product — the official prescribing information, verbatim, section by section. Jump with a chip, search within the label, or expand everything.
🎯 Indications and Usage ~3 min read

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE KEYTRUDA QLEX is a combination of pembrolizumab, a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1)-blocking antibody, and berahyaluronidase alfa, an endoglycosidase, indicated: Melanoma for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma. ( 1.1 ) for the adjuvant treatment of adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older with Stage IIB, IIC, or III melanoma following complete resection. ( 1.1 ) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, as first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations.

( 1.2 ) in combination with carboplatin and either paclitaxel or paclitaxel protein-bound, as first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC. ( 1.2 ) as a single agent for the first-line treatment of adult patients with NSCLC expressing PD-L1 [Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) ≥1%] as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations, and is: Stage III where patients are not candidates for surgical resection or definitive chemoradiation, or metastatic. ( 1.2 , 2.1 ) as a single agent for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors express PD-L1 (TPS ≥1%) as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy.

Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving KEYTRUDA QLEX. ( 1.2 , 2.1 ) for the treatment of adult patients with resectable (tumors ≥4 cm or node positive) NSCLC in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment, and then continued as a single agent as adjuvant treatment after surgery. ( 1.2 ) as a single agent, for adjuvant treatment following resection and platinum-based chemotherapy for adult patients with Stage IB (T2a ≥4 cm), II, or IIIA NSCLC.

( 1.2 ) Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM) in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, as first-line treatment of adult patients with unresectable advanced or metastatic MPM. ( 1.3 ) Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer (HNSCC) for the treatment of adult patients with resectable locally advanced HNSCC whose tumors express PD-L1 [Combined Positive Score (CPS) ≥1] as determined by an FDA-authorized test, as a single agent as neoadjuvant treatment, continued as adjuvant treatment in combination with radiotherapy (RT) with or without cisplatin and then as a single agent.

( 1.4 ) in combination with platinum and FU for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic or with unresectable, recurrent HNSCC. ( 1.4 ) as a single agent for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic or with unresectable, recurrent HNSCC whose tumors express PD-L1 [Combined Positive Score (CPS) ≥1] as determined by an FDA-authorized test. ( 1.4 , 2.1 ) as a single agent for the treatment of adult patients with recurrent or metastatic HNSCC with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy.

( 1.4 ) Urothelial Cancer in combination with enfortumab vedotin-ejfv, for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer. ( 1.5 ) as a single agent for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma who: are not eligible for any platinum-containing chemotherapy, or who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy or within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy.

( 1.5 ) in combination with enfortumab vedotin-ejfv, as neoadjuvant treatment and then continued after cystectomy as adjuvant treatment of adult patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). ( 1.5 ) as a single agent for the treatment of adult patients with Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG)-unresponsive, high-risk, non-muscle invasive bladde…

⏱️ Dosage and Administration ~3 min read

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION KEYTRUDA QLEX has different recommended dosage and administration than intravenous pembrolizumab. ( 2.2 ) KEYTRUDA QLEX is for subcutaneous use in the thigh or abdomen only. ( 2.2 ) Do not administer KEYTRUDA QLEX intravenously.

( 2.2 ) KEYTRUDA QLEX must be administered by a healthcare provider. ( 2.2 ) The recommended dose for adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older who weigh greater than 40 kg is: Every 3-week dosing (395 mg/4,800 units): Inject 2.4 mL subcutaneously in the abdomen or thigh over 1 minute. ( 2.3 ) Every 6-week dosing (790 mg/9,600 units): Inject 4.8 mL subcutaneously in the abdomen or thigh over 2 minutes.

( 2.3 ) For RCC, administer KEYTRUDA QLEX as a single agent in the adjuvant setting, or in the advanced setting with either: axitinib 5 mg orally twice daily or lenvatinib 20 mg orally once daily. ( 2.3 ) For ccRCC, administer KEYTRUDA QLEX in combination with belzutifan 120 mg orally once daily in the adjuvant setting. ( 2.3 ) For Endometrial Carcinoma, administer KEYTRUDA QLEX: in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel regardless of MMR or MSI status, or in combination with lenvatinib 20 mg orally once daily for pMMR or not MSI-H tumors, or as a single agent for MSI-H or dMMR tumors.

( 2.3 ) See Full Prescribing Information for dosage modifications for adverse reactions and preparation and administration instructions. ( 2.4 , 2.5 )

2.1Patient Selection See information on FDA-authorized tests for intravenous pembrolizumab. Information on FDA-authorized tests for patient selection is available at: http://www.fda.gov/CompanionDiagnostics . Patient Selection for Single-Agent Treatment Select patients for treatment with KEYTRUDA QLEX as a single agent based on the presence of positive PD-L1 expression in: Stage III NSCLC who are not candidates for surgical resection or definitive chemoradiation [see Clinical Studies (14.4) ] . metastatic NSCLC [see Clinical Studies (14.4) ]. first-line treatment of metastatic or unresectable, recurrent HNSCC [see Clinical Studies (14.6) ] . previously treated recurrent locally advanced or metastatic esophageal cancer [see Clinical Studies (14.11) ] . recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer with disease progression on or after chemotherapy [see Clinical Studies (14.12) ] .

For the MSI-H/dMMR indications, select patients for treatment with KEYTRUDA QLEX as a single agent based on MSI-H/dMMR status in tumor specimens [see Clinical Studies (14.8 , 14.9) ]. For the TMB-H indication, select patients for treatment with KEYTRUDA QLEX as a single agent based on TMB-H status in tumor specimens [see Clinical Studies (14.18) ]. Because subclonal dMMR mutations and microsatellite instability may arise in high-grade gliomas during temozolomide therapy, it is recommended to test for TMB-H, MSI-H, and dMMR in the primary tumor specimens obtained prior to initiation of temozolomide chemotherapy in patients with high-grade gliomas.

Additional Patient Selection Information for MSI-H or dMMR in Patients with non-CRC Solid Tumors Due to discordance between local tests and FDA-authorized tests, confirmation of MSI-H or dMMR status is recommended by an FDA-authorized test in patients with MSI-H or dMMR solid tumors, if feasible. If unable to perform confirmatory MSI-H/dMMR testing, the presence of TMB ≥10 mut/Mb, as determined by an FDA-authorized test, may be used to select patients for treatment [see Clinical Studies (14.8) ] . Patient Selection for Combination Therapy For use of KEYTRUDA QLEX as a single agent as neoadjuvant treatment, then in combination with radiotherapy (RT) with or without chemotherapy then continued as a single agent as adjuvant treatment, select patients based on presence of positive PD-L1 expression (CPS ≥1) in resectable locally advanced HNSCC [see Clinical Studies (14.6) ] .

For use of KEYTRUDA QLEX in combination with chemotherapy, select patients based on the presence of positive PD-L1 expression (CPS ≥1) in locally advanced…

💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths 106 words

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS KEYTRUDA QLEX is a clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to slightly yellow solution provided as: Injection: 395 mg pembrolizumab and 4,800 units berahyaluronidase alfa per 2.4 mL (165 mg/2,000 units per mL) in a single-dose vial Injection: 790 mg pembrolizumab and 9,600 units berahyaluronidase alfa per 4.8 mL (165 mg/2,000 units per mL) in a single-dose vial Injection: ( 3 ) 395 mg pembrolizumab and 4,800 units berahyaluronidase alfa per 2.4 mL (165 mg/2,000 units per mL) in a single-dose vial 790 mg pembrolizumab and 9,600 units berahyaluronidase alfa per 4.8 mL (165 mg/2,000 units per mL) in a single-dose vial

Contraindications 43 words

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS KEYTRUDA QLEX is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to berahyaluronidase alfa, hyaluronidase or to any of its excipients. KEYTRUDA QLEX is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to berahyaluronidase alfa, hyaluronidase or to any of its excipients. ( 4 )

⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ~2 min read

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions ( 5.1 ) Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue, including the following: immune-mediated pneumonitis, immune-mediated colitis, immune-mediated hepatitis, immune-mediated endocrinopathies, immune-mediated nephritis with renal dysfunction, immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions, and solid organ transplant rejection. Monitor for early identification and management. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment.

Withhold or permanently discontinue based on severity and type of reaction. Hypersensitivity and Administration-Related Reactions: Interrupt injection and resume upon symptom resolution, or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA QLEX based on the severity of reaction. ( 5.2 ) Complications of Allogeneic HSCT: Fatal and other serious complications can occur in patients who receive allogeneic HSCT before or after being treated with a PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibody.

( 5.3 ) Treatment of patients with multiple myeloma with a PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody in combination with a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone is not recommended outside of controlled clinical trials. ( 5.4 ) Embryo-Fetal toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and to use effective method of contraception.

( 5.5 , 8.1 , 8.3 )

5.1Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions KEYTRUDA QLEX is a monoclonal antibody that belongs to a class of drugs that bind to either the programmed death-receptor 1 (PD-1) or the PD-ligand 1 (PD-L1), blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, thereby removing inhibition of the immune response, potentially breaking peripheral tolerance and inducing immune-mediated adverse reactions. Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed under WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions.

Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue and can affect more than one body system simultaneously. Immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur at any time after starting treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibody. While immune-mediated adverse reactions usually manifest during treatment with PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies, immune-mediated adverse reactions can also manifest after discontinuation of PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies.

Early identification and management of immune-mediated adverse reactions are essential to ensure safe use of PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment.

For patients with TNBC treated with KEYTRUDA QLEX in the neoadjuvant setting, monitor blood cortisol at baseline, prior to surgery, and as clinically indicated. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate.

Withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA QLEX depending on severity [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ] . In general, if KEYTRUDA QLEX requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month.

Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Toxicity management guidelines for adverse reactions that do not necessarily require systemic steroids (e.g., endocrinopathies and…

🤒 Adverse Reactions ~2 min read

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling. Severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Hypersensitivity and Administration-Related Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ].

The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in patients treated with KEYTRUDA QLEX in combination with chemotherapy were nausea, fatigue, and musculoskeletal pain. ( 6.1 ) The safety of KEYTRUDA QLEX for the approved indications is also based on the safety of intravenous pembrolizumab given as a single agent or in combination with other antitumor medicines. The most common adverse reactions (reported in ≥20% of patients) with intravenous pembrolizumab were: As a single agent: fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, rash, diarrhea, pyrexia, cough, decreased appetite, pruritus, dyspnea, constipation, pain, abdominal pain, nausea, and hypothyroidism.

( 6.1 ) In combination with chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy: fatigue/asthenia, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, decreased appetite, rash, vomiting, cough, dyspnea, pyrexia, alopecia, peripheral neuropathy, mucosal inflammation, stomatitis, headache, weight loss, abdominal pain, arthralgia, myalgia, insomnia, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, urinary tract infection, hypothyroidism, radiation skin injury, dysphagia, dry mouth and musculoskeletal pain. ( 6.1 ) In combination with chemotherapy and bevacizumab: peripheral neuropathy, alopecia, anemia, fatigue/asthenia, nausea, neutropenia, diarrhea, hypertension, thrombocytopenia, constipation, arthralgia, vomiting, urinary tract infection, rash, leukopenia, hypothyroidism, decreased appetite, pyrexia, epistaxis, decreased white blood cell count, and stomatitis.

( 6.1 ) In combination with axitinib: diarrhea, fatigue/asthenia, hypertension, hepatotoxicity, hypothyroidism, decreased appetite, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, nausea, stomatitis/mucosal inflammation, dysphonia, rash, cough, and constipation. ( 6.1 ) In combination with lenvatinib: hypothyroidism, hypertension, fatigue, diarrhea, musculoskeletal disorders, nausea, decreased appetite, vomiting, stomatitis, weight loss, abdominal pain, urinary tract infection, proteinuria, constipation, headache, hemorrhagic events, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, dysphonia, rash, hepatotoxicity, and acute kidney injury.

( 6.1 ) In combination with belzutifan (reported in ≥25%): decreased hemoglobin, increased alanine aminotransferase, fatigue, increased aspartate aminotransferase, decreased lymphocytes, and increased alkaline phosphatase. ( 6.1 ) In combination with enfortumab vedotin-ejfv: rash, peripheral neuropathy, fatigue, pruritus, diarrhea, alopecia, weight loss, decreased appetite, dry eye, nausea, constipation, dysgeusia, and urinary tract infection. ( 6.1 ) In combination with sacituzumab govitecan-hziy: anemia, neutropenia, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, alopecia, constipation, rash, vomiting, headache and abdominal pain.

( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC at 1-877-888-4231 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .

6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described in the WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS reflect exposure to intravenous pembrolizumab as a single agent in 2799 patients in three randomized, open-label, active-controlled trials (KEYNOTE-002, KEYNOTE-006, and KEYNOTE-010), which enrolled 912 patients with melanoma and 682 patients with NSCLC, and one single-arm trial (KEYNOTE-001), which enrolled 655 patients with melanoma and 550 patients with NSCLC.

In addition to the 2799 patients, certain subsections in the WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS describe adverse reactions observed with exposu…

👥 Use in Specific Populations ~3 min read

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation: Advise not to breastfeed. ( 8.2 )

8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on its mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ] , KEYTRUDA QLEX can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available human data informing the risk of embryo-fetal toxicity. In animal models, the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway is important in the maintenance of pregnancy through induction of maternal immune tolerance to fetal tissue (see Data ) .

Human IgG4 (immunoglobulins) are known to cross the placenta; therefore, pembrolizumab has the potential to be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.

Data Animal Data KEYTRUDA QLEX for subcutaneous injection contains pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa [see Description (11) ] . Pembrolizumab: Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with pembrolizumab to evaluate its effect on reproduction and fetal development. A literature-based assessment of the effects of the PD-1 pathway on reproduction demonstrated that a central function of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway is to preserve pregnancy by maintaining maternal immune tolerance to the fetus.

Blockade of PD-L1 signaling has been shown in murine models of pregnancy to disrupt tolerance to the fetus and to result in an increase in fetal loss; therefore, potential risks of administering pembrolizumab during pregnancy include increased rates of abortion or stillbirth. As reported in the literature, there were no malformations related to the blockade of PD-1 signaling in the offspring of these animals; however, immune-mediated disorders occurred in PD-1 knockout mice. Based on its mechanism of action, fetal exposure to pembrolizumab may increase the risk of developing immune-mediated disorders or of altering the normal immune response.

Berahyaluronidase alfa: In an embryo-fetal development study, pregnant rabbits were administered daily subcutaneous injections of 138,600, 403,200, or 1,209,600 U/kg berahyaluronidase alfa during the period of organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 19). Berahyaluronidase alfa caused delayed fetal development at doses ≥403,200 U/kg, which is >2,500 times higher than the human dose (U/kg basis). Increased post-implantation loss and visceral malformations (supernumerary fissure lung lobe) were observed at 1,209,600 U/kg, which is >7,500 times higher than the human dose.

In an embryo-fetal development study in rats, there were no adverse embryo-fetal findings in pregnant animals administered daily subcutaneous injections of berahyaluronidase alfa at doses up to 2,520,000 U/kg (>15,000 times higher than the human dose) during the period of organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 17). In a pre- and post-natal development study in rats, pregnant animals were administered daily subcutaneous injections of 280,000, 840,000, or 2,520,000 U/kg berahyaluronidase alfa from implantation through lactation and weaning (gestation day 6 to lactation day 21).

There were no adverse effects on sexual maturation, learning and memory, or fertility of the offspring at doses up to 2,520,000 U/kg, which is >15,000 times higher than the human dose.

8.2Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of pembrolizumab or berahyaluronidase alfa in either animal or human milk or its effects on the breastfed child or on milk production. Maternal IgG is known to be present in human milk. The effects of local gastrointestinal exposure and limited systemic exposure in the breastfed child to KEYTRUDA QLEX are unknown.

Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed children, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with KEYTRUDA QLEX and for 4 months after the last dose.

8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Base…

🤰 Pregnancy ~2 min read

8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on its mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ] , KEYTRUDA QLEX can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available human data informing the risk of embryo-fetal toxicity. In animal models, the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway is important in the maintenance of pregnancy through induction of maternal immune tolerance to fetal tissue (see Data ) .

Human IgG4 (immunoglobulins) are known to cross the placenta; therefore, pembrolizumab has the potential to be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.

Data Animal Data KEYTRUDA QLEX for subcutaneous injection contains pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa [see Description (11) ] . Pembrolizumab: Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with pembrolizumab to evaluate its effect on reproduction and fetal development. A literature-based assessment of the effects of the PD-1 pathway on reproduction demonstrated that a central function of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway is to preserve pregnancy by maintaining maternal immune tolerance to the fetus.

Blockade of PD-L1 signaling has been shown in murine models of pregnancy to disrupt tolerance to the fetus and to result in an increase in fetal loss; therefore, potential risks of administering pembrolizumab during pregnancy include increased rates of abortion or stillbirth. As reported in the literature, there were no malformations related to the blockade of PD-1 signaling in the offspring of these animals; however, immune-mediated disorders occurred in PD-1 knockout mice. Based on its mechanism of action, fetal exposure to pembrolizumab may increase the risk of developing immune-mediated disorders or of altering the normal immune response.

Berahyaluronidase alfa: In an embryo-fetal development study, pregnant rabbits were administered daily subcutaneous injections of 138,600, 403,200, or 1,209,600 U/kg berahyaluronidase alfa during the period of organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 19). Berahyaluronidase alfa caused delayed fetal development at doses ≥403,200 U/kg, which is >2,500 times higher than the human dose (U/kg basis). Increased post-implantation loss and visceral malformations (supernumerary fissure lung lobe) were observed at 1,209,600 U/kg, which is >7,500 times higher than the human dose.

In an embryo-fetal development study in rats, there were no adverse embryo-fetal findings in pregnant animals administered daily subcutaneous injections of berahyaluronidase alfa at doses up to 2,520,000 U/kg (>15,000 times higher than the human dose) during the period of organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 17). In a pre- and post-natal development study in rats, pregnant animals were administered daily subcutaneous injections of 280,000, 840,000, or 2,520,000 U/kg berahyaluronidase alfa from implantation through lactation and weaning (gestation day 6 to lactation day 21).

There were no adverse effects on sexual maturation, learning and memory, or fertility of the offspring at doses up to 2,520,000 U/kg, which is >15,000 times higher than the human dose.

🧒 Pediatric Use ~2 min read

8.4Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of KEYTRUDA QLEX for the treatment of pediatric patients 12 years and older who weigh greater than 40 kg have been established for: Stage IIB, IIC, or III melanoma following complete resection [see Indications and Usage (1.1) ] Unresectable or metastatic microsatellite instability high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) solid tumors [see Indications and Usage (1.6) ] Recurrent locally advanced or metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma [see Indications and Usage (1.13) ] Unresectable or metastatic tumor mutational burden high solid tumors (TMB-H) [see Indications and Usage (1.16) ] Use of KEYTRUDA QLEX in pediatric patients for these indications is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of intravenous pembrolizumab in adults and additional pharmacokinetic and safety data for intravenous pembrolizumab in pediatric patients 12 years and older [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Studies (14) ].

Pembrolizumab exposures in pediatric patients 12 years and older who weigh greater than 40 kg are predicted to be within range of those observed in adults at the same dosage [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. The safety and effectiveness of KEYTRUDA QLEX have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 12 years of age for the treatment of melanoma, MCC, MSI-H or dMMR cancer, and TMB-H cancer. The safety and effectiveness of KEYTRUDA QLEX have not been established in pediatric patients for other approved indications [see Indications and Usage (1) ] .

Intravenous pembrolizumab In KEYNOTE-051, 173 pediatric patients (including 108 pediatric patients aged 12 to 17 years) with advanced melanoma, lymphoma, or PD-L1 positive or MSI-H solid tumors received intravenous pembrolizumab 2 mg/kg every 3 weeks. The median duration of exposure was 2.1 months (range: 1 day to 25 months). Adverse reactions that occurred at a ≥10% higher rate in pediatric patients when compared to adults included pyrexia (33%), vomiting (29%), headache (25%), abdominal pain (23%), decreased lymphocyte count (13%), and decreased white blood cell count (11%).

Laboratory abnormalities that occurred at a ≥10% higher rate in pediatric patients when compared to adults were leukopenia (30%), neutropenia (28%), thrombocytopenia (22%), and Grade 3 anemia (17%).

🧓 Geriatric Use ~3 min read

8.5Geriatric Use Of the 251 patients treated with KEYTRUDA QLEX in combination with platinum doublet chemotherapy in Study MK-3745A-D77, 53% were 65 years and older and 16% were 75 years and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of KEYTRUDA QLEX have been observed between patients aged 65 years or older and younger adult patients. The safety of KEYTRUDA QLEX as monotherapy or in combination with other antineoplastic drugs for its approved indications [see Indications and Usage (1) ] has been established in adequate and well-controlled studies of intravenous pembrolizumab as a single agent and in combination with other antineoplastic drugs.

Below is a description of geriatric use information from the intravenous pembrolizumab studies. Of 3781 patients with melanoma, NSCLC, HNSCC, or urothelial carcinoma who were treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in clinical studies, 48% were 65 years and over and 17% were 75 years and over. Of 506 adult patients with Stage IB (T2a ≥4 cm), II, or IIIA NSCLC following complete resection and platinum-based chemotherapy who were treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in KEYNOTE-091, 242 (48%) were 65 years and over.

Of 221 adult patients with TNBC who were treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with sacituzumab govitecan-hziy in KEYNOTE-D19, 26% of patients were 65 years and over and 5% were 75 years and older. No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between elderly patients and younger patients. There was a higher rate of serious adverse reactions in patients aged 65 years or older (48%) compared with younger adult patients (34%).

Of 596 adult patients with TNBC who were treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with paclitaxel, paclitaxel protein-bound, or gemcitabine and carboplatin in KEYNOTE-355, 137 (23%) were 65 years and over. Of 406 adult patients with endometrial carcinoma who were treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with lenvatinib in KEYNOTE-775, 201 (50%) were 65 years and over. Of the 564 patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with enfortumab vedotin-ejfv, 44% (n=247) were 65-74 years and 26% (n=144) were 75 years or older.

No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between patients 65 years of age or older and younger patients. Patients 75 years of age or older treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with enfortumab vedotin-ejfv experienced a higher incidence of fatal adverse reactions than younger patients. The incidence of fatal adverse reactions was 4% in patients younger than 75 and 7% in patients 75 years or older.

Of the 570 patients with MIBC treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with enfortumab vedotin-ejfy, 45% (n=259) were 65-74 years and 22% (n=125) were 75 years or older. No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between patients 65 years of age or older and younger patients. Patients 75 years of age or older treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with enfortumab vedotin-ejfv experienced a higher incidence of fatal adverse reactions than younger patients.

The incidence of fatal adverse reactions was 3.6% in patients younger than 75 and 11% in patients 75 years or older. Of the 432 patients randomized to intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with axitinib in the KEYNOTE-426 trial, 40% were 65 years or older. Of 294 adult patients with FIGO 2014 Stage III-IVA cervical cancer who were treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with CRT in KEYNOTE-A18, 42 (14%) were 65 years and over.

Of 643 adult patients with ovarian cancer who were treated with intravenous pembrolizumab in combination with paclitaxel with or without bevacizumab in KEYNOTE-B96, 236 (37%) were 65 years and over and 58 (9%) were 75 years and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between intravenous pembrolizumab-treated patients aged 65 y…

🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ~3 min read

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1Mechanism of Action Binding of the PD-1 ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, to the PD-1 receptor found on T cells, inhibits T cell proliferation and cytokine production. Upregulation of PD-1 ligands occurs in some tumors and signaling through this pathway can contribute to inhibition of active T-cell immune surveillance of tumors. Pembrolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to the PD-1 receptor and blocks its interaction with PD-L1 and PD-L2, releasing PD-1 pathway-mediated inhibition of the immune response, including the anti-tumor immune response.

In syngeneic mouse tumor models, blocking PD-1 activity resulted in decreased tumor growth. In syngeneic mouse tumor models, combination treatment of a PD-1 blocking antibody and kinase inhibitor lenvatinib decreased tumor-associated macrophages, increased activated cytotoxic T cells, and reduced tumor growth compared to either treatment alone. Berahyaluronidase alfa, an endoglycosidase, is a variant of human hyaluronidase PH20 that temporarily and locally breaks down hyaluronan.

Hyaluronan is a polysaccharide found in the extracellular matrix of the subcutaneous tissue. Unlike the stable structural components of the interstitial matrix, hyaluronan has a half-life of approximately 0.5 days. Hyaluronidase increases permeability of the subcutaneous tissue by depolymerizing hyaluronan.

In the doses administered, the effects of berahyaluronidase alfa are reversible and permeability of the subcutaneous tissue is restored within 24 to 48 hours.

12.2Pharmacodynamics There are no clinically significant exposure-response relationships for efficacy or safety for intravenous pembrolizumab across the approved dosing regimens, regardless of cancer type. The exposures from subcutaneous KEYTRUDA QLEX doses of 395 mg/4,800 units every 3 weeks or 790 mg/9,600 units every 6 weeks are within the range of exposures from intravenous pembrolizumab doses.

12.3Pharmacokinetics Pembrolizumab pharmacokinetics were characterized at Cycle 1 and at steady state in patients with advanced solid tumors at the approved recommended dosages and are presented as mean (CV%) unless otherwise specified. When comparing pembrolizumab exposure following subcutaneous administration every 6 weeks to that of intravenous administration every 6 weeks in Study MK-3475A-D77 [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ], the geometric mean ratio (GMR) for Cycle 1 AUC 0-6wks was 1.14 (96% CI: 1.06, 1.22) and Cycle 3 C trough (i.e., steady state) was 1.67 (94% CI: 1.52, 1.84).

Pembrolizumab steady state was reached by 16 weeks. At steady state following subcutaneous administration, the mean pembrolizumab AUC 0-6wks was 2,798 mcg•day/mL for the every 6 week dosing and pembrolizumab AUC 0-3wks was 1,343 mcg•day/mL for the every 3 week dosing. Pembrolizumab C trough was 39 mcg/mL for the every 6 week dosing and 49 mcg/mL for the every 3 week dosing.

The systemic accumulation ratio was 1.6-fold following administration of KEYTRUDA QLEX 790 mg/9,600 units every 6 weeks and 2.5-fold following administration of KEYTRUDA QLEX 395 mg/4,800 units every 3 weeks. Absorption Pembrolizumab bioavailability (CV%) is approximately 60% (14%). Peak concentrations occurred by approximately 4 days.

Distribution The volume of distribution is 6 L. Elimination Pembrolizumab clearance decreases over time, resulting in a steady state clearance (CV%) of 195 mL/day (40%); this decrease in clearance with time is not considered clinically significant. The terminal half-life is 22 days.

Specific Populations No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of pembrolizumab were observed based on age (37 to 87 years), race (63% White, 28% Asian, 3% Black), sex, body weight (37 to 144 kg), tumor type, injection site (thigh or abdomen), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥15 mL/min/1.73 m 2 , and mild to moderate hepatic impairment (total bilirubin ≤3 times ULN and any AST). The effect of severe hepatic impairment (total bilirubin >…

🧬 Mechanism of Action 211 words

12.1Mechanism of Action Binding of the PD-1 ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, to the PD-1 receptor found on T cells, inhibits T cell proliferation and cytokine production. Upregulation of PD-1 ligands occurs in some tumors and signaling through this pathway can contribute to inhibition of active T-cell immune surveillance of tumors. Pembrolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to the PD-1 receptor and blocks its interaction with PD-L1 and PD-L2, releasing PD-1 pathway-mediated inhibition of the immune response, including the anti-tumor immune response.

In syngeneic mouse tumor models, blocking PD-1 activity resulted in decreased tumor growth. In syngeneic mouse tumor models, combination treatment of a PD-1 blocking antibody and kinase inhibitor lenvatinib decreased tumor-associated macrophages, increased activated cytotoxic T cells, and reduced tumor growth compared to either treatment alone. Berahyaluronidase alfa, an endoglycosidase, is a variant of human hyaluronidase PH20 that temporarily and locally breaks down hyaluronan.

Hyaluronan is a polysaccharide found in the extracellular matrix of the subcutaneous tissue. Unlike the stable structural components of the interstitial matrix, hyaluronan has a half-life of approximately 0.5 days. Hyaluronidase increases permeability of the subcutaneous tissue by depolymerizing hyaluronan.

In the doses administered, the effects of berahyaluronidase alfa are reversible and permeability of the subcutaneous tissue is restored within 24 to 48 hours.

📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling 101 words

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING KEYTRUDA QLEX (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) injection is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to slightly yellow solution supplied in single-dose vials for subcutaneous administration. Each carton contains one single-dose vial either as: 395 mg pembrolizumab and 4,800 units berahyaluronidase alfa per 2.4 mL (165 mg/ 2,000 units per mL), NDC 0006-3083-01 790 mg pembrolizumab and 9,600 units berahyaluronidase alfa per 4.8 mL (165 mg/ 2,000 units per mL), NDC 0006-5083-01 Store vials refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in original carton to protect from light.

Do not freeze. Do not shake.

📦 Storage and Handling 23 words

Store vials refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in original carton to protect from light. Do not freeze. Do not shake.

📋 Description ~1 min read

11 DESCRIPTION KEYTRUDA QLEX is a fixed-combination drug product containing pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa. Pembrolizumab is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD 1)-blocking antibody. Pembrolizumab is a humanized monoclonal IgG4 kappa antibody with an approximate molecular weight of 149 kDa.

Pembrolizumab is produced in recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Berahyaluronidase alfa is an endoglycosidase used to enhance dispersion and permeation, which facilitates delivery of increased volume of pembrolizumab that is co-administered subcutaneously. It is produced by mammalian CHO (Chinese Hamster Ovary) cells containing a DNA plasmid encoding a variant of human hyaluronidase PH20.

It is a glycosylated protein with an approximate molecular weight of 49 kDa under nonreducing, deglycosylated conditions. KEYTRUDA QLEX (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) injection is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to slightly yellow solution supplied in single-dose vials for subcutaneous administration. KEYTRUDA QLEX is supplied as two different configurations: Each KEYTRUDA QLEX 2.4 mL single-dose vial contains 395 mg of pembrolizumab and 4,800 units of berahyaluronidase alfa, and histidine (0.7 mg), histidine hydrochloride monohydrate (4.1 mg), methionine (3.6 mg), polysorbate 80 (0.5 mg), sucrose (168 mg), and Water for Injection, USP.

The pH is 5.3-5.9. Each KEYTRUDA QLEX 4.8 mL single-dose vial contains 790 mg of pembrolizumab and 9,600 units of berahyaluronidase alfa, and histidine (1.4 mg), histidine hydrochloride monohydrate (8.2 mg), methionine (7.2 mg), polysorbate 80 (1 mg), sucrose (336 mg), and Water for Injection, USP. The pH is 5.3-5.9.

💬 Information for Patients ~2 min read

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guide ). Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions Inform patients of the risk of immune-mediated adverse reactions that may be severe or fatal, may occur after discontinuation of treatment, and may require corticosteroid treatment and interruption or discontinuation of KEYTRUDA QLEX. These reactions may include: Pneumonitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for new or worsening cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .

Colitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for diarrhea or severe abdominal pain [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Hepatitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for jaundice, severe nausea or vomiting, or easy bruising or bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Endocrinopathies: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, hypophysitis, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or Type 1 diabetes mellitus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .

Nephritis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of nephritis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Severe skin reactions: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for any signs or symptoms of severe skin reactions, SJS or TEN [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Other immune-mediated adverse reactions: Advise patients that immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur and may involve any organ system, and to contact their healthcare provider immediately for any new or worsening signs or symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .

Advise patients of the risk of solid organ transplant rejection and other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of organ transplant rejection and other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Hypersensitivity and Administration-Related Reactions Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity and administration-related systemic reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .

Complications of Allogeneic HSCT Advise patients of the risk of post-allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ]. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with KEYTRUDA QLEX and for 4 months after the last dose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ] .

Lactation Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with KEYTRUDA QLEX and for 4 months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2) ] . Laboratory Tests Advise patients of the importance of keeping scheduled appointments for blood work or other laboratory tests [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .

💬 Medication Guide ~3 min read

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Revised: 07/2026 MEDICATION GUIDE KEYTRUDA QLEX ™ (key-true-duh Q-lex) (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) injection, for subcutaneous use What is the most important information I should know about KEYTRUDA QLEX?

KEYTRUDA QLEX is a medicine that may treat certain cancers by working with your immune system. KEYTRUDA QLEX can cause your immune system to attack normal organs and tissues in any area of your body and can affect the way they work. These problems can sometimes become severe or life-threatening and can lead to death.

You can have more than one of these problems at the same time. These problems may happen anytime during treatment or even after your treatment has ended. Call or see your healthcare provider right away if you develop any new or worsening signs or symptoms, including: Lung problems cough shortness of breath chest pain Intestinal problems diarrhea (loose stools) or more frequent bowel movements than usual stools that are black, tarry, sticky, or have blood or mucus severe stomach-area (abdomen) pain or tenderness Liver problems yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes severe nausea or vomiting pain on the right side of your stomach area (abdomen) dark urine (tea colored) bleeding or bruising more easily than normal Hormone gland problems headaches that will not go away or unusual headaches eye sensitivity to light eye problems rapid heartbeat increased sweating extreme tiredness weight gain or weight loss feeling more hungry or thirsty than usual urinating more often than usual hair loss feeling cold constipation your voice gets deeper dizziness or fainting changes in mood or behavior, such as decreased sex drive, irritability, or forgetfulness Kidney problems decrease in your amount of urine blood in your urine swelling of your ankles loss of appetite Skin problems rash itching skin blistering or peeling painful sores or ulcers in your mouth or in your nose, throat, or genital area fever or flu-like symptoms swollen lymph nodes Problems can also happen in other organs and tissues.

These are not all of the signs and symptoms of immune system problems that can happen with KEYTRUDA QLEX. Call or see your healthcare provider right away for any new or worsening signs or symptoms, which may include: chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, swelling of ankles confusion, sleepiness, memory problems, changes in mood or behavior, stiff neck, balance problems, tingling or numbness of the arms or legs double vision, blurry vision, sensitivity to light, eye pain, changes in eyesight persistent or severe muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps low red blood cells, bruising Allergic and injection-related reactions that can sometimes be severe or life-threatening, can happen during treatment with KEYTRUDA QLEX.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any signs or symptoms, including: chills or shaking itching or rash flushing shortness of breath or wheezing dizziness feeling like passing out fever back pain Rejection of a transplanted organ or tissue. Your healthcare provider should tell you what signs and symptoms you should report and monitor you depending on the type of organ or tissue transplant that you have had. Complications, including graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD), in people who have received a bone marrow (stem cell) transplant that uses donor stem cells (allogeneic).

These complications can be serious and can lead to death. These complications may happen if you underwent transplantation either before or after being treated with KEYTRUDA QLEX. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for these complications.

Getting medical treatment right away may help keep these problems from becoming more serious. Your healthcare provider will check you for these problems during treatment with KEYTRUDA QLEX. Your healthcare provider may treat you with corticosteroid or hormone replacement medicines…

Source: FDA Structured Product Labeling, mirrored from DailyMed / openFDA. Prefer the government’s original formatting? View this label on DailyMed ↗
For educational and professional reference only — not medical advice. Pricing reflects published NADAC and CMS ASP (free public data) and may differ from your acquisition cost; always verify before billing or dispensing.