Tecentriq: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

A PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor (monoclonal antibody) used to treat urothelial carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma

Rx ATC: L01FF05 PD-L1 Checkpoint Inhibitor
Active Ingredient
Atezolizumab
Available Forms
Solution for injection (SC), Concentrate for infusion (IV)
Strength
1875 mg/15 mL (SC); 840 mg, 1200 mg (IV)
Manufacturer
Roche (Genentech)

Tecentriq (atezolizumab) is a humanized monoclonal antibody that works as an immune checkpoint inhibitor by targeting PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1). It is one of the most widely used cancer immunotherapy drugs, approved for multiple solid tumor types including non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, urothelial carcinoma, triple-negative breast cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. By blocking the PD-L1 protein on tumor cells, Tecentriq restores the ability of the patient’s own immune system to recognize and attack cancer. It is available as both an intravenous infusion and a subcutaneous injection, administered every three weeks in a healthcare setting. Tecentriq requires a prescription and has fundamentally changed the treatment landscape for many advanced cancers.

Quick Facts: Tecentriq

Active Ingredient
Atezolizumab
Drug Class
PD-L1 Inhibitor
ATC Code
L01FF05
Common Uses
Lung, Bladder, Breast, Liver Cancer
Available Forms
SC Injection / IV Infusion
Prescription Status
Rx Only

Key Takeaways

  • Tecentriq (atezolizumab) is a PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor that helps the body’s immune system recognize and fight cancer by blocking the PD-L1 protein on tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells.
  • It is approved for multiple cancer types including non-small cell lung cancer (both advanced and adjuvant), small cell lung cancer, urothelial carcinoma, triple-negative breast cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
  • Tecentriq can cause immune-mediated side effects – including pneumonitis, hepatitis, colitis, endocrine disorders, and myocarditis – which require prompt recognition and management with corticosteroids or treatment discontinuation.
  • The subcutaneous formulation (1875 mg) is given as a thigh injection over approximately 7 minutes every 3 weeks, offering a faster alternative to the intravenous infusion; your doctor may switch between formulations.
  • Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for 5 months after the last dose, as Tecentriq may harm the developing fetus based on its mechanism of action.

What Is Tecentriq and What Is It Used For?

Quick Answer: Tecentriq (atezolizumab) is a cancer immunotherapy drug that works by blocking PD-L1, a protein that shields cancer cells from the immune system. By removing this shield, Tecentriq allows the body’s own T cells to recognize and destroy cancer cells. It is used to treat lung cancer, bladder cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer.

Tecentriq contains the active substance atezolizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody belonging to a class of anticancer medicines known as immune checkpoint inhibitors. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-engineered proteins designed to recognize and bind to specific targets in the body with high precision. In the case of Tecentriq, the antibody is designed to bind to a protein called programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), which plays a crucial role in how cancer cells evade detection by the immune system.

Under normal conditions, the immune system has the ability to recognize and eliminate abnormal cells, including cancer cells. However, many tumors exploit a natural immune checkpoint pathway to protect themselves. Cancer cells often overexpress PD-L1 on their surface. When PD-L1 on tumor cells binds to PD-1 receptors on T cells (the immune cells responsible for killing cancer), it sends an “off” signal that prevents the T cells from attacking. This is sometimes described as the cancer putting on an “invisibility cloak” against the immune system. Tecentriq works by binding directly to PD-L1, physically blocking it from interacting with PD-1 and also with B7.1 (CD80), another receptor on T cells. By blocking both of these interactions, Tecentriq releases the brakes on the immune system and restores T-cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity.

Unlike some other checkpoint inhibitors that target PD-1 (such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab), atezolizumab targets PD-L1 specifically. This distinction is clinically relevant because blocking PD-L1 preserves the PD-L2/PD-1 interaction, which may contribute to maintaining immune tolerance in normal tissues and potentially reducing certain types of immune-related toxicity. Additionally, atezolizumab has been engineered with modifications to its Fc region that eliminate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), meaning it does not directly kill the immune cells that express PD-L1 – it only blocks the inhibitory signal.

Tecentriq is approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and numerous other regulatory authorities worldwide for the following indications in adults:

  • Urothelial carcinoma (bladder cancer): Tecentriq is used for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma that has progressed during or after platinum-containing chemotherapy, or in patients who are not eligible for cisplatin-based chemotherapy and whose tumors express PD-L1.
  • Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Tecentriq has multiple approved indications in NSCLC. It is used as monotherapy for first-line treatment of metastatic NSCLC in adults whose tumors have high PD-L1 expression. It is also approved in combination with bevacizumab, paclitaxel, and carboplatin for first-line treatment of metastatic non-squamous NSCLC, and in combination with nab-paclitaxel and carboplatin for first-line treatment of metastatic non-squamous NSCLC without EGFR or ALK alterations. Additionally, Tecentriq is approved as adjuvant therapy after surgery and platinum-based chemotherapy in patients with stage II–IIIA NSCLC whose tumors express PD-L1 on at least 50% of tumor cells or at least 10% of tumor-infiltrating immune cells.
  • Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): Tecentriq is approved in combination with carboplatin and etoposide for the first-line treatment of adult patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer. The IMpower133 trial demonstrated a significant improvement in overall survival with the addition of atezolizumab to chemotherapy.
  • Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC): Tecentriq is used in combination with nab-paclitaxel for the treatment of unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer in adults whose tumors express PD-L1 with immune cell staining covering at least 1% of the tumor area.
  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer): Tecentriq is approved in combination with bevacizumab for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma who have not received prior systemic therapy. The IMbrave150 trial showed significant improvements in both overall survival and progression-free survival compared with sorafenib.

The availability of Tecentriq has fundamentally changed the treatment paradigm for these cancers. In many settings, immunotherapy with atezolizumab has replaced or supplemented traditional chemotherapy approaches, offering patients the possibility of durable responses – meaning the cancer remains controlled for extended periods. Some patients who respond to checkpoint inhibitors experience long-lasting benefit that persists even after treatment is stopped, a phenomenon attributed to immunological memory.

Immunotherapy vs. Chemotherapy

Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which directly kills rapidly dividing cells (including healthy ones), Tecentriq works by empowering the patient’s own immune system to fight cancer. This targeted immunological approach can produce more durable responses and generally has a different side-effect profile. However, by activating the immune system, Tecentriq can cause unique immune-mediated adverse reactions that are not seen with conventional chemotherapy.

What Should You Know Before Receiving Tecentriq?

Quick Answer: Do not receive Tecentriq if you are allergic to atezolizumab or any of its ingredients. Inform your doctor about all medical conditions, especially autoimmune diseases, organ transplants, chronic infections (hepatitis B/C, HIV), liver or kidney problems, and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Because Tecentriq activates the immune system, it may worsen autoimmune conditions and cause inflammation in healthy organs.

Contraindications

Tecentriq must not be used if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to atezolizumab or any of the other ingredients in the formulation. Signs of a serious allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, severe rash, or dizziness. If you experience any of these during or after treatment, seek immediate medical attention.

Warnings and Precautions

Because Tecentriq works by activating the immune system, it can cause inflammation in various parts of the body. This phenomenon, known as immune-mediated adverse reactions, can affect virtually any organ system. These reactions may occur during treatment or even weeks to months after the last dose. Talk to your doctor or nurse before receiving Tecentriq if any of the following apply to you:

  • Autoimmune diseases: If you have an autoimmune condition (a condition where the body attacks its own cells), such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, or type 1 diabetes. Tecentriq may cause your autoimmune disease to flare up or worsen.
  • Cancer spread to the brain: If your cancer has metastasized to the brain.
  • History of lung inflammation (pneumonitis): If you have previously had pneumonitis or interstitial lung disease.
  • Chronic viral hepatitis: If you have or have had chronic hepatitis B (HBV) or hepatitis C (HCV) infection.
  • HIV/AIDS: If you have human immunodeficiency virus infection or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
  • Cardiovascular disease: If you have a heart condition or blood vessel disease, or have experienced organ damage due to insufficient blood flow.
  • Organ transplant: If you have received a solid organ transplant (e.g., kidney, liver, heart), as checkpoint inhibitors can trigger rejection.
  • Previous immunotherapy: If you have had severe side effects from other immunotherapy treatments that help your immune system fight cancer.
  • Immunosuppressive or immunostimulatory medications: If you take drugs that suppress or stimulate the immune system.
  • Live vaccines: If you have received a live attenuated vaccine recently.
  • Recent antibiotics: If you have taken antibiotics within the past two weeks.

Your doctor will perform blood tests and clinical assessments before and during treatment to monitor for immune-mediated reactions. If these reactions develop, your doctor may temporarily pause treatment, give you corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medications, or permanently discontinue Tecentriq depending on the severity. Do not attempt to treat these symptoms yourself with other medications.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Tecentriq should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential clinical benefit clearly outweighs the risk to the unborn child. Based on its mechanism of action, atezolizumab is expected to be harmful to the developing fetus. The PD-L1/PD-1 pathway is critical for maintaining immune tolerance during pregnancy, and blocking this pathway may lead to immune-mediated rejection of the fetus. Animal studies have shown an increased risk of miscarriage and premature birth when PD-L1 signaling is disrupted.

If you are of childbearing potential, you must use effective contraception during treatment with Tecentriq and for at least 5 months after the last dose. If you become pregnant during treatment, tell your doctor immediately.

It is not known whether atezolizumab is excreted in human breast milk. Since immunoglobulin G antibodies (the class to which atezolizumab belongs) can pass into breast milk, a risk to the breastfed infant cannot be excluded. Discuss with your doctor whether you should breastfeed during Tecentriq treatment.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Tecentriq has a minor effect on the ability to drive or use machines. If you feel tired or unwell during treatment, do not drive or operate machinery until you feel better. Fatigue is one of the most commonly reported side effects and may impair your reaction time.

Important Information About Ingredients

The subcutaneous formulation of Tecentriq contains polysorbate 20 (E 432) at a concentration of 0.6 mg/mL (9 mg per 15 mL dose). Polysorbate can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to polysorbates. The subcutaneous formulation also contains recombinant human hyaluronidase (rHuPH20), an enzyme that temporarily increases the permeability of subcutaneous tissue to allow the injection of a large volume under the skin.

How Does Tecentriq Interact with Other Drugs?

Quick Answer: Tecentriq has limited direct pharmacokinetic drug interactions because it is a monoclonal antibody cleared by catabolism rather than hepatic enzymes. However, systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressants used before starting Tecentriq may reduce its effectiveness. Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment. Tecentriq is commonly combined with various chemotherapy regimens, which have their own interaction profiles.

Because atezolizumab is a monoclonal antibody protein, it is not metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes or other drug-metabolizing enzymes in the liver. Instead, it is cleared through protein catabolism (natural breakdown by the body). This means that traditional pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions – the kind seen with small-molecule drugs that compete for liver enzymes – are not expected with Tecentriq. However, there are important pharmacodynamic interactions that can affect the efficacy and safety of treatment.

Major Interactions

Major Drug Interactions with Tecentriq
Interacting Drug Effect Clinical Significance
Systemic corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone, dexamethasone) at immunosuppressive doses before treatment initiation May suppress the immune response needed for Tecentriq to work, potentially reducing efficacy Avoid systemic corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants before starting Tecentriq; use is appropriate for managing immune-mediated adverse reactions after treatment begins
Live vaccines (e.g., MMR, varicella, BCG, yellow fever) Risk of vaccine-strain infection due to altered immune regulation; unpredictable vaccine response Avoid live vaccines during treatment and until immune function has recovered after discontinuation
Other immunosuppressive agents (e.g., azathioprine, mycophenolate, tacrolimus) May counteract the immune-activating mechanism of Tecentriq, reducing anti-tumor efficacy Avoid baseline immunosuppression; short-term use for immune-mediated adverse reaction management is acceptable

Minor Interactions

Other Drug Interactions with Tecentriq
Interacting Drug Effect Clinical Significance
Antibiotics (taken within 2 weeks before or during early treatment) Broad-spectrum antibiotics may alter gut microbiome composition, which has been associated with reduced response to checkpoint inhibitors in observational studies Retrospective data suggest possible reduced efficacy; use antibiotics when clinically necessary but be aware of potential impact
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) Some retrospective studies suggest altered gut microbiome may influence immunotherapy response Clinical significance uncertain; no dose adjustment required
Chemotherapy partners (carboplatin, paclitaxel, nab-paclitaxel, etoposide, bevacizumab) Tecentriq is routinely combined with these agents; no negative pharmacokinetic interaction observed Approved combinations; monitor for cumulative toxicity from the chemotherapy components
Inactivated vaccines (e.g., influenza, COVID-19 mRNA) Generally safe to administer; immune response to vaccine may be reduced Inactivated vaccines may be given during treatment; discuss timing with your oncologist

When Tecentriq is administered in combination with chemotherapy, the drug interactions of each chemotherapy agent must also be considered. For example, carboplatin-based combinations carry risks of nephrotoxicity and myelosuppression that may be compounded by other nephrotoxic or myelosuppressive drugs. Bevacizumab has known interactions with drugs that affect bleeding risk. Your oncology team will carefully review all your current medications before each treatment cycle to minimize the risk of harmful interactions.

What Is the Correct Dosage of Tecentriq?

Quick Answer: Tecentriq is given as a fixed dose (not weight-based) every 2, 3, or 4 weeks depending on the formulation and indication. The subcutaneous injection delivers 1875 mg every 3 weeks. Intravenous formulations are available as 840 mg (every 2 weeks), 1200 mg (every 3 weeks), or 1680 mg (every 4 weeks). Treatment continues as long as there is clinical benefit or until unacceptable toxicity.

Unlike many chemotherapy drugs, Tecentriq uses a flat (fixed) dosing approach – meaning the dose is the same regardless of your body weight or body surface area. This simplifies preparation and administration. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosing schedule based on your specific cancer type, stage, and treatment regimen.

Subcutaneous Injection

Tecentriq Subcutaneous (SC) Formulation

Dose: 1875 mg (15 mL solution) subcutaneously in the thigh

Schedule: Once every 3 weeks (21-day cycles)

Administration time: Approximately 7 minutes

Note: Injection sites are alternated between left and right thigh. Each injection must be given at least 2.5 cm from the previous injection site, and never into areas where the skin is red, bruised, tender, or hard. Your doctor may switch you between subcutaneous and intravenous formulations if clinically appropriate.

Intravenous Infusion

Tecentriq Intravenous (IV) Formulation

Dose options:

  • 840 mg every 2 weeks
  • 1200 mg every 3 weeks
  • 1680 mg every 4 weeks

First infusion: Given over 60 minutes. If well-tolerated, subsequent infusions may be given over 30 minutes.

Note: Tecentriq must not be given as an intravenous push or bolus injection. The dose and schedule depend on the specific indication and whether Tecentriq is given alone or in combination with other drugs.

Indication-Specific Dosing

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – Adjuvant

Dose: 1200 mg IV every 3 weeks (or 1875 mg SC every 3 weeks)

Duration: Up to 1 year (16 cycles) or until disease recurrence or unacceptable toxicity

Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (ES-SCLC)

Induction: Tecentriq 1200 mg IV + carboplatin + etoposide every 3 weeks for 4 cycles

Maintenance: Tecentriq 1200 mg IV (or 1875 mg SC) every 3 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

Dose: Tecentriq 1200 mg IV (or 1875 mg SC) + bevacizumab 15 mg/kg IV every 3 weeks

Duration: Until loss of clinical benefit or unacceptable toxicity

Missed Dose

If you miss a scheduled appointment for Tecentriq, contact your healthcare team immediately to reschedule. It is very important to maintain regular treatment intervals for optimal effectiveness. If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible – do not wait for the next scheduled date. From that point, the dosing schedule should be adjusted to maintain the regular interval.

Children and Adolescents

Tecentriq is not approved for use in children or adolescents under 18 years of age. The safety and efficacy of atezolizumab have not been established in this age group. Pediatric use should only be considered within the context of clinical trials.

Dose Modifications

Unlike chemotherapy, dose reductions are not recommended for Tecentriq. Instead, treatment is managed by delaying doses or permanently discontinuing treatment based on the type and severity of adverse reactions. Your doctor may temporarily hold Tecentriq if you develop significant immune-mediated reactions, giving your body time to recover with corticosteroid support, and then resume treatment once the reaction has resolved. Permanent discontinuation is required for severe or life-threatening immune-mediated adverse reactions, or for reactions that do not resolve to acceptable levels despite appropriate treatment.

Hospital-Administered Only

Tecentriq is always prepared and administered by trained healthcare professionals in a hospital or specialized clinic setting. Both the subcutaneous injection and the intravenous infusion require medical supervision. You will be monitored during and after each treatment for potential reactions.

What Are the Side Effects of Tecentriq?

Quick Answer: The most common side effects of Tecentriq when used alone include fatigue, nausea, itchy skin, rash, diarrhea, decreased appetite, joint pain, and cough. The most significant risks are immune-mediated adverse reactions, including pneumonitis, hepatitis, colitis, endocrine disorders, nephritis, myocarditis, and neurological toxicity. When used with chemotherapy, low blood cell counts, hair loss, and neuropathy also become common.

Like all medicines, Tecentriq can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The side effect profile differs depending on whether Tecentriq is used as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy. Because Tecentriq activates the immune system, many of its unique side effects result from the immune system attacking healthy tissues – these are called immune-mediated adverse reactions and can occur in any organ system. They may appear weeks or even months after the last dose.

Side Effects When Tecentriq Is Given Alone

Very Common

May affect more than 1 in 10 people

  • Fatigue (feeling extremely tired or lacking energy)
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Itchy skin (pruritus)
  • Skin rash
  • Diarrhea
  • Joint pain (arthralgia)
  • Decreased appetite
  • Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Back pain
  • Cough
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Muscle and bone pain

Common

May affect up to 1 in 10 people

  • Lung inflammation (pneumonitis) with low oxygen levels (hypoxia)
  • Abdominal pain
  • Liver inflammation (hepatitis) with elevated liver enzymes
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Low potassium (hypokalemia) or sodium (hyponatremia)
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
  • Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
  • Infusion-related reactions (hypersensitivity, cytokine release syndrome)
  • Flu-like symptoms and chills
  • Intestinal inflammation (colitis)
  • Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
  • High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
  • Common cold (nasopharyngitis)
  • Mouth pain or dry mouth
  • Dry skin
  • Abnormal kidney function tests
  • Pericardial disease (inflammation of the heart sac)
  • Injection site reaction (subcutaneous formulation)
  • Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage causing numbness, pain)
  • Joint inflammation (arthritis)

Uncommon

May affect up to 1 in 100 people

  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • Guillain-Barré syndrome (numbness or paralysis)
  • Adrenal insufficiency (low adrenal hormones)
  • Type 1 diabetes (including diabetic ketoacidosis)
  • Muscle inflammation (myositis)
  • Psoriasis (red, dry, scaly skin patches)
  • Kidney inflammation (nephritis)
  • Severe skin reactions (SCARs, including blistering and mouth sores)
  • Pituitary inflammation (hypophysitis)
  • Elevated creatine phosphokinase (indicator of muscle or heart inflammation)
  • Lichen-type skin changes
  • Eye inflammation (uveitis)
  • Tendon sheath inflammation (tenosynovitis)

Rare

May affect up to 1 in 1,000 people

  • Heart muscle inflammation (myocarditis)
  • Myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
  • Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (overactive immune cells)
  • Spinal cord inflammation (myelitis)
  • Facial nerve paralysis
  • Celiac disease
  • Cytomegalovirus infection
  • Sarcoidosis

Not Known

Frequency cannot be estimated from available data

  • Bladder inflammation (cystitis) with frequent or painful urination, urgency, blood in urine
  • Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (decreased digestive enzyme production)

Additional Side Effects When Given with Chemotherapy

When Tecentriq is administered in combination with chemotherapy, the side effect profile broadens significantly due to the additive effects of the cytotoxic agents. The following additional or more frequent side effects have been reported:

Very Common (Combination)

May affect more than 1 in 10 people

  • Low red blood cell count (anemia), causing tiredness and breathlessness
  • Low white blood cell count (neutropenia, leukopenia), increasing infection risk
  • Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), increasing bleeding risk
  • Constipation
  • Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling, pain in hands/feet)
  • Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
  • Hair loss (alopecia)
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Swelling of arms or legs
  • Lung infection (pneumonia)
  • Common cold (nasopharyngitis)

Common (Combination)

May affect up to 1 in 10 people

  • Low potassium, sodium, or magnesium levels
  • Mouth inflammation (stomatitis)
  • Hoarseness (dysphonia)
  • Protein in urine (proteinuria)
  • Intestinal inflammation (colitis)
  • Fainting (syncope)
  • Elevated liver enzymes
  • Taste changes (dysgeusia)
  • Decreased lymphocyte count
  • Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
  • Dizziness
  • Infusion-related reactions
  • Severe bloodstream infection (sepsis)
  • Joint inflammation (arthritis)

Uncommon (Combination)

May affect up to 1 in 100 people

  • Psoriasis
  • Severe skin reactions (SCARs)
  • Pericardial disease
  • Pituitary inflammation (hypophysitis)
  • Tendon sheath inflammation (tenosynovitis)

Rare (Combination)

May affect up to 1 in 1,000 people

  • Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
  • Facial nerve paralysis
  • Celiac disease
  • Lichen-type skin changes
  • Eye inflammation (uveitis)
  • Cytomegalovirus infection
Reporting Side Effects

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed here, tell your doctor or nurse. You can also report suspected side effects to your national pharmacovigilance authority (e.g., the EMA in Europe, the FDA MedWatch program in the United States, or the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme in the United Kingdom) to help continuously monitor the benefit-risk profile of Tecentriq.

How Should Tecentriq Be Stored?

Quick Answer: Tecentriq must be stored in a refrigerator at 2–8°C, protected from light, and must not be frozen. The subcutaneous solution is a ready-to-use formulation that should be administered immediately after transfer to the syringe. Storage is handled by your hospital pharmacy – you will not typically need to store this medication at home.

Tecentriq will be stored by healthcare professionals at the hospital or clinic where you receive treatment. The storage conditions are as follows:

  • Temperature: Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
  • Light protection: Keep the vial in the outer carton to protect from light.
  • Expiry date: Do not use after the expiry date stated on the carton and vial label after “EXP.” The expiry date refers to the last day of the stated month.
  • Inspection: Do not use if the solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles.
  • Subcutaneous syringe storage: Once transferred to a syringe, the prepared dose may be stored for up to 30 days at 2–8°C and up to 8 hours at room temperature (not exceeding 30°C) in subdued daylight. If stored in the refrigerator, allow the syringe to reach room temperature before administration.

Unused medicine and waste should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste. Your healthcare team will ensure proper disposal to protect the environment.

What Does Tecentriq Contain?

Quick Answer: The subcutaneous formulation of Tecentriq contains 1875 mg of atezolizumab in 15 mL of solution (125 mg/mL). The inactive ingredients include L-histidine, L-methionine, acetic acid, sucrose, polysorbate 20 (E 432), recombinant human hyaluronidase (rHuPH20), and water for injections. It is a clear, colorless to slightly yellowish liquid supplied in a single glass vial.

Active Substance

The active substance is atezolizumab, a humanized immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody produced by recombinant DNA technology in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Each milliliter of the subcutaneous solution contains 125 mg of atezolizumab. One vial of 15 mL contains 1875 mg of atezolizumab.

Inactive Ingredients (Excipients)

  • L-histidine (buffering agent)
  • L-methionine (antioxidant)
  • Acetic acid (pH adjustment)
  • Sucrose (stabilizer)
  • Polysorbate 20 (E 432) – surfactant; 9 mg per 15 mL dose (0.6 mg/mL)
  • Recombinant human hyaluronidase (rHuPH20) – permeation enhancer for subcutaneous delivery
  • Water for injections

Appearance and Packaging

Tecentriq subcutaneous solution for injection is a clear, colorless to slightly yellowish liquid. It is supplied in a single glass vial containing 15 mL of solution. Each carton contains one vial. The solution is ready to use and must not be diluted or mixed with other medications.

Manufacturer

Tecentriq is manufactured by Roche Pharma AG, Grenzach-Wyhlen, Germany. The marketing authorization holder is Roche Registration GmbH, Grenzach-Wyhlen, Germany. In the United States, Tecentriq is marketed by Genentech, Inc., a member of the Roche Group.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tecentriq

Tecentriq (atezolizumab) is a cancer immunotherapy used to treat several types of cancer in adults. Its approved indications include urothelial carcinoma (bladder cancer), non-small cell lung cancer (both advanced metastatic disease and as adjuvant therapy after surgery), extensive-stage small cell lung cancer, triple-negative breast cancer (in combination with nab-paclitaxel), and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer, in combination with bevacizumab). It may be given alone or in combination with chemotherapy depending on the specific indication.

The intravenous (IV) formulation is given as an infusion into a vein over 30–60 minutes, while the subcutaneous (SC) formulation is injected under the skin of the thigh over approximately 7 minutes. Both formulations deliver the same therapeutic effect. The subcutaneous formulation contains 1875 mg of atezolizumab in 15 mL and includes recombinant human hyaluronidase to facilitate absorption. Your doctor may switch you between formulations if it is clinically appropriate. The choice depends on factors such as patient preference, clinical setting, and the specific treatment regimen.

The duration of Tecentriq treatment varies depending on the indication. For adjuvant NSCLC, treatment continues for up to 1 year (16 cycles) or until disease recurrence. For metastatic cancers, treatment typically continues until the cancer progresses, unacceptable side effects develop, or the patient and doctor jointly decide to stop. Some patients have received Tecentriq for several years with ongoing benefit. Your oncologist will regularly assess whether you are still benefiting from treatment through imaging scans and clinical evaluations.

If you develop symptoms that could indicate an immune-mediated adverse reaction – such as new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea, abdominal pain, skin rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual fatigue, headaches, vision changes, muscle weakness, or chest pain – contact your doctor immediately. Do not attempt to treat these symptoms yourself. Most immune-mediated reactions can be effectively managed if detected early, typically with corticosteroids. In some cases, your doctor may temporarily pause Tecentriq and resume once the reaction has resolved, or permanently discontinue treatment if the reaction is severe.

Not all patients respond to Tecentriq. Response rates vary depending on the cancer type, PD-L1 expression levels, and other factors. In clinical trials, approximately 15–25% of patients with previously treated urothelial carcinoma responded to Tecentriq monotherapy. Response rates are generally higher when Tecentriq is combined with chemotherapy. For some indications, PD-L1 testing is performed to identify patients more likely to benefit. However, some patients with low PD-L1 expression still respond, and some with high expression do not. Researchers continue to investigate biomarkers that could better predict who will benefit from checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with Tecentriq and until immune function has recovered after treatment ends. Live vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), varicella (chickenpox), yellow fever, and BCG. However, inactivated vaccines (such as the influenza vaccine, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, and pneumococcal vaccine) are generally considered safe to administer, although the immune response to these vaccines may be reduced. Discuss the timing and type of any vaccines with your oncologist before receiving them.

References

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  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). TECENTRIQ (atezolizumab) Prescribing Information. Revised 2025. Available from: FDA Drug Label.
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