Tecentriq (atezolizumab)
Genentech / Roche · PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor
What is Tecentriq? Tecentriq (atezolizumab) is a PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor manufactured by Genentech/Roche. It works differently from PD-1 inhibitors by targeting the PD-L1 ligand directly.
About Tecentriq
| Brand Name | Tecentriq |
| Generic / INN | atezolizumab |
| Drug Class | PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Genentech / Roche |
| Administration | Intravenous (IV) infusion |
| FDA Approval | 2016 |
| Presentation | Tecentriq is available as 1200 mg/20 mL (60 mg/mL) solution vials. |
FDA-Approved Uses for Tecentriq
The following indications are based on FDA approval as of the last review date. Your oncologist will determine appropriate use based on your specific cancer type, stage, biomarker status, and overall treatment plan.
- Urothelial carcinoma (locally advanced or metastatic)
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Small cell lung cancer (extensive-stage, first-line combination)
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (unresectable or metastatic)
- Melanoma (BRAF V600-unresectable or metastatic, combination)
- Triple-negative breast cancer (PD-L1 positive, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic)
How Does Tecentriq Work?
Tecentriq targets PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) on tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells, preventing it from binding to the PD-1 and B7-1 receptors on T cells. This restores T cell activity against tumor cells while preserving some immune checkpoints.
Dosage & Administration
840 mg every 2 weeks, 1200 mg every 3 weeks, or 1680 mg every 4 weeks as an IV infusion. The dosing schedule depends on the indication and combination regimen.
Dosing for oncology medications is individualized by the treating oncologist or oncology pharmacist. Do not adjust dosing without consulting your healthcare team. The information on this page is educational only and does not replace the official prescribing information or your provider's guidance.
Warnings, Precautions & Side Effects
General Warning
Immune-mediated adverse reactions including pneumonitis, hepatitis, colitis, endocrinopathies, and skin reactions. Infusion-related reactions. Embryo-fetal toxicity.
- Immune-mediated pneumonitis
- Immune-mediated hepatitis
- Immune-mediated colitis
- Immune-mediated endocrinopathies
- Infusion-related reactions
- Embryo-fetal toxicity
Common Side Effects
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea
- Urinary tract infection
- Fever
- Constipation
- Rash
This is not a complete list. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your oncologist or healthcare provider promptly.
Storage & Handling
Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Oncology medications require careful handling. BiologicHealthPlus provides cold-chain specialty delivery with temperature monitoring for medications that require refrigeration. Do not use the medication if the storage chain has been compromised.
Insurance Coverage, Prior Authorization & Patient Assistance
🛡️ Commercial Insurance
Tecentriq is a specialty oncology medication covered by most major commercial insurance plans when medically necessary and prior authorized. Coverage varies by plan, indication, and formulary tier. BiologicHealthPlus verifies benefits at no cost to patients.
✅ Prior Authorization
Prior authorization is required by virtually all insurance plans for Tecentriq. Our team handles the full prior authorization process — submitting clinical documentation, peer-to-peer reviews when needed, and appeals — at no cost to patients or providers.
🏥 Medicare & Medicaid
Medicare coverage for oncology medications depends on route of administration. Intravenous oncology medications are typically covered under Medicare Part B (medical benefit) when administered in a clinical setting. Subcutaneous formulations may be covered under Part B or Part D depending on administration circumstances. Medicaid coverage varies by state.
🆓 Patient Assistance Programs
Manufacturer patient assistance programs may be available for eligible uninsured or underinsured patients. BiologicHealthPlus can assess your eligibility and help with the application process. Contact our team for a confidential eligibility review.
Prior Authorization Guide Patient Assistance Programs Insurance & Savings Medication Costs
Frequently Asked Questions About Tecentriq
Tecentriq (atezolizumab) is a PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor manufactured by Genentech/Roche, used in the treatment of several cancer types. It blocks PD-L1 on tumor cells to help restore the immune system's ability to fight cancer.
Tecentriq targets PD-L1, the ligand on tumor cells, while Keytruda targets PD-1, the receptor on T cells. Both block the same immune checkpoint pathway but from different sides. Clinical outcomes, approved indications, and administration schedules differ.
Tecentriq is FDA-approved for urothelial carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, melanoma (in combination), and triple-negative breast cancer (PD-L1 positive).
Tecentriq is given as an IV infusion. Depending on the dosing schedule (every 2, 3, or 4 weeks), the first infusion takes 60 minutes; subsequent infusions may take 30 minutes if well tolerated.
Tecentriq is typically covered by commercial insurance and Medicare Part B when medically indicated and prior authorized. BiologicHealthPlus can verify your benefits at no cost.
Related Medications & Conditions
Related Medications
Keytruda · Tecentriq Hybreza · Atezolizumab · Bevacizumab
Related Conditions
Non-small cell lung cancer · Urothelial carcinoma · Hepatocellular carcinoma · Triple-negative breast cancer