The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved a subcutaneous version of the cancer immunotherapy drug nivolumab (Opdivo), allowing it to be delivered via a quick 3–5 minute injection instead of the traditional 30–60 minute IV infusion. This method is already being rolled out by NHS England, making it the first major health system in Europe to adopt this “super‑jab” for approximately 15 cancer types, including lung, bowel, kidney, bladder, oesophageal, skin, and head and neck cancers.

Clinical trials show that the shot achieves equivalent drug levels and therapeutic outcomes as the IV form, with patients preferring its ease and efficiency. NHS officials estimate the new protocol will benefit around 1,200 patients per month and free up over a year’s worth of treatment time annually, boosting capacity and convenience for both patients and clinicians.