Bavencio (avelumab)
EMD Serono / Pfizer · PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor
What is Bavencio? Bavencio (avelumab) is a PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor by EMD Serono/Pfizer, approved for Merkel cell carcinoma and urothelial carcinoma maintenance therapy.
About Bavencio
| Brand Name | Bavencio |
| Generic / INN | avelumab |
| Drug Class | PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | EMD Serono / Pfizer |
| Administration | Intravenous (IV) infusion |
| FDA Approval | 2017 |
FDA-Approved Uses for Bavencio
Indications are based on FDA approval. Your healthcare provider determines appropriate use based on your specific diagnosis, stage, biomarker status, and overall clinical picture.
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) — metastatic, adults and pediatric patients ≥12 years
- Urothelial carcinoma (UC) — locally advanced or metastatic, maintenance therapy after platinum-containing chemotherapy (in patients whose disease has not progressed)
How Does Bavencio Work?
Avelumab is an anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody that binds PD-L1 on tumor cells, blocking its interaction with PD-1 and B7-1 receptors on T cells. Unlike some other checkpoint inhibitors, avelumab also preserves natural killer (NK) cell-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).
Dosage & Administration
800 mg IV infusion every 2 weeks. Pre-medicate with antihistamine and acetaminophen before the first 4 infusions and as clinically indicated thereafter (reduces infusion-related reactions). Infusion over 60 minutes.
Warnings, Precautions & Side Effects
General Warning
Immune-mediated adverse reactions across organ systems. Infusion-related reactions (premedication required). Embryo-fetal toxicity.
Common Side Effects
- Fatigue
- Infusion-related reactions
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Peripheral edema
- Decreased appetite
This is not a complete list. Always report new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
Storage & Handling
Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
BiologicHealthPlus provides temperature-monitored cold-chain specialty delivery for medications requiring refrigeration. Never use a medication if its storage conditions have been compromised.
Insurance Coverage, Prior Authorization & Patient Assistance
🛡️ Commercial Insurance
Bavencio is covered by most major commercial insurance plans when medically necessary and prior authorized. Coverage tier and cost-sharing vary by plan.
✅ Prior Authorization
Prior authorization is required by virtually all insurance plans for Bavencio. BiologicHealthPlus handles the complete prior authorization process at no cost to patients or providers.
🏥 Medicare Coverage
Medicare Part B covers this IV medication when administered in a clinical setting. Medicaid coverage varies by state.
🆓 Patient Assistance
Manufacturer patient assistance programs may be available for eligible uninsured or underinsured patients. Contact BiologicHealthPlus for a confidential eligibility review.
Prior Authorization Patient Assistance Insurance & Savings Medication Costs
Frequently Asked Questions — Bavencio
Bavencio (avelumab) is a PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor approved for Merkel cell carcinoma and as maintenance therapy for urothelial carcinoma after platinum chemotherapy.
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive skin cancer that typically occurs in sun-exposed areas. It is often associated with Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Bavencio was the first FDA-approved treatment specifically for metastatic MCC.
Avelumab has a higher rate of infusion-related reactions compared to some other checkpoint inhibitors. Premedication with an antihistamine and acetaminophen before the first 4 infusions significantly reduces this risk.
Bavencio is covered by Medicare Part B and commercial insurance for approved indications with prior authorization. BiologicHealthPlus handles the full PA process.
Related Medications & Conditions
Related Medications
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) · Tecentriq (atezolizumab) · Imfinzi (durvalumab) · Opdivo (nivolumab)
Related Conditions
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) · Urothelial carcinoma · Bladder cancer