Researchers announced on Monday that Opdivo treatment of Bristol-Myers Squibb Co can be paired with the American pharmaceutical company’s other immunotherapy, Yervoy, to treat patients suffering from lung cancer. According to the researchers, an early-stage study has suggested the possible pair.

The company headquartered in New York City is allowed to sell Opdivo to treat people with advanced melanoma. In the latest late-stage study, the medicine improved survival with chemotherapy in people previously treated with non-squamous form of lung cancer.

To check the effectiveness of the medicine, the company has been testing it by pairing with another medication, Yervoy. On Monday, the Bristol-Myers Squibb researchers revealed updates of the early-stage study, Check Mate-12. The study included more than 100 patients who were untreated with squamous and non-squamous lung cancer. The researchers considered results of four drug regimens that paired Opdivo and Yervoy.

In melanoma studies, the researchers found that effectiveness of Opdivo was improved after adding Yervoy. According to the researchers, they also noted a worrisome increase in side effects. About 39% patients who were taking Opdivo plus Yervoy every 12 weeks showed reduction in tumors.

They also revealed that about 10% patients left the study due to some side effects. According to the researchers, the percentage is not huge, but still worrisome. In an interview, Michael Giordano, head of Bristol-Myers' immuno-oncology program, said, “A well tolerated regimen has been achieved, with ability to maintain the additive benefit of (Yervoy)”.