Go-ahead for drugs which could help cancer survival
A DRUG which can increase survival rates for blood cell cancer sufferers has been accepted for routine use by NHS Scotland.
The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) approved Carfilzomib (Kyprolis) to treat multiple myeloma – a complex blood cell cancer.
The drug can i ncrease overall survival compared to other current treatments and has fewer negative side effects.
A patient group, the Patient and Clinician Engagement Process (Pace) heard this type of cancer becomes resistant to treatment over time, requiring different treatment options.
The SMC also approved venetoclax (Venclyxto) which can be used in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), a cancer of the white blood cells.
The approval follows Pace groups highlighting the fact that when initial treatments fail or are unsuitable, patients faced limited options.
Desmopressin for the treatment of idiopathic nocturnal polyuria, a condition where people need to pass urine frequently during the night, was also accepted.
SMC chairman Dr Alan MacDonald said: “I am pleased we have been able to accept these three new medicines for routine use by NHS Scotland.
“Carfilzomib offers a valuable additional treatment for those with multiple myeloma, giving them more good quality time with their families.
“Through PACE, we heard how venetoclax can substantially reduce symptoms in CLL patients and give them a better quality of life, so we know this decision will be welcomed.
“Desmopressin will be a useful addition for treating those with idiopathic nocturnal polyuria.”
Gregor McNie, Cancer Research UK’s senior public affairs manager, said: “It’s great news that venetoclax will be made available for some patients in Scotland with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. This decision offers another treatment option for patients with this devastating disease.”