Immunotherapy (PD-L1 inhibitor / monoclonal antibody)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Atezolizumab (sold as Tecentriq in Nigeria) is a type of cancer medicine called an immunotherapy. It works by helping your body's own immune system recognize and attack cancer cells that were previously hiding from it.
Binds to programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) on tumour cells and immune cells, blocking its interaction with PD-1 receptors on T lymphocytes and thereby restoring anti-tumour immune response and T-cell proliferation.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a scheduled infusion appointment, contact your cancer doctor or hospital immediately to reschedule. Do not try to double up or make up for a missed dose on your own.
Only receive this drug at a certified hospital or cancer treatment centre, never from unverified sources or roadside sellers. Report any new or unusual symptoms to your oncologist immediately, as immunotherapy can cause your immune system to attack healthy organs. Make sure to keep all your scheduled hospital appointments for monitoring.
Steroids and other drugs that suppress the immune system may reduce how well atezolizumab works, so always tell your cancer doctor about every medicine you are taking. Herbal remedies and traditional medicines should also be disclosed to your doctor as they may interfere with treatment.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Atezolizumab with your other drugs?
Atezolizumab is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can harm the unborn baby. Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during and for at least 5 months after treatment.
Tecentriq must be stored in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C) at the hospital or pharmacy. Do not freeze it. It should not be kept in hot Nigerian weather conditions outside a fridge. Keep out of reach of children at all times.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
No brand names recorded for Atezolizumab yet.
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.