A drug that could improve the quality of life for hundreds of women with uterine cancer will be introduced on the NHS across England from Tuesday.
Dostarlimab, also known as Gemperi, is an immunotherapy that attracts specific proteins to the surface of cancer cells, helping the immune system attack them.
It is expected to be introduced by NHS England in 2022 after receiving approval from the National Institute for Healthcare Excellence (Nice). Up to 200 patients will be eligible each year.
There is evidence that using this drug in combination with chemotherapy can extend lifespan. This is a monoclonal antibody that is administered by infusion over 30 minutes under medical supervision for each treatment.
According to Cancer Research, there are 9,700 new cases and 2,400 deaths from uterine-related cancers across the UK each year. The two most common forms are endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma.
In clinical trials, 64% of patients receiving Gemperi and chemotherapy did not see their cancer worsen after one year of treatment. This number was more than double the rate for chemotherapy alone (only 24%).
Dostarlimab was approved by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in October as a drug that can be used in combination with chemotherapy to slow the progression of uterine cancer and extend patients' lives.
It is the first medicine approved by the MHRA as a first-line treatment for primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer.
The most common side effects are an underactive thyroid, skin rash, dry skin, high fever or fever, and increased levels of liver enzymes in the blood.
Professor Peter Clarke, director of NHS England's Cancer Drugs Fund (CDF), said: “The rollout of this drug as a first-line treatment in the NHS is good news for patients living with this type of uterine cancer. “This new immunotherapy has the potential to have hundreds of effects.” Percentage of women who hope to have a precious extra life before their cancer progresses. ”
Helen Knight, head of medicine evaluation at Nice, said: “Advanced or recurrent uterine cancer has a devastating impact on quality of life and there are limited treatment options available.”
“We are focused on delivering what matters most and getting treatment quickly to those who need it, which is why we are making this treatment option readily available through CDF. I'm glad that people affected by this type of cancer will be able to spend more precious time with their families and loved ones. ”