Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Yervoy. It helps treat certain types of cancer, such as melanoma and cancers of the kidney, colon or rectum. It may have other uses, too.

Yervoy is given as an infusion into a vein. It is often given as one dose every 3 weeks for 4 doses. Your doctor will decide how many doses will work best for you. Sometimes, a serious reaction can happen during the infusion. Your doctor or nurse will watch you closely and will teach you which symptoms to report. He or she will be prepared to treat any concerns.

Many people will have side effects. Your doctor will help you manage them. You should wait until you know how this medicine affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving. 

Common side effects include a headache, a loss of appetite, problems sleeping and feeling a little tired. These effects are normal if they are mild. Some side effects are common, but they could be serious. Tell your doctor if you have a rash, fever, diarrhea, and nausea or vomiting. If these side effects or others become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

As with any medicine, more serious side effects could occur. With Yervoy, these include tears in the intestines and problems with various organs. You should read the Medication Guide to know which symptoms to watch for and when to report changes. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely.

Yervoy is not safe for unborn babies. Women must talk to their doctors about which birth control to use and for how long. Women should not breastfeed.

For best results with Yervoy, work closely with your doctor to manage side effects.