Mobocertinib is used to treat a specific type of lung cancer known as EGFR+ lung cancer. This is a non-smoking related form of lung cancer caused by specific gene mutations. Mobocertinib was the first treatment specifically for patients with EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations and it received accelerated approval in US in the year 2021. But, it was voluntarily withdrawn last year after it failed to show significant effect on progression free survival in Phase 3 clinical trials. This treatment was until recently only targeted in the UK licensed for use in NHS settings for EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations. The withdrawal of this drug could potentially limit treatment options.
Takeda is the manufacturer of mobocertinib and its withdrawal has met with disappointment and concern for both healthcare professionals and patients. The medical experts have warned that the patients with EGFR lung cancer will have limited treatment options beyond chemotherapy. This could potentially reduce lifespans and increase the mortality rates as patients with this mutation will have no treatment options beyond chemotherapy. The withdrawal of mobocertinib underscores the need for continuous research, development and access to effective drugs.
Now, the need for swift approval and available of effective treatments is of paramount importance. There have been calls for the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to revise its guidelines for including other effective drugs. Following the withdrawal of mobocertinib, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency is also taking steps to ensure access to alternative treatments for patients with lung cancer.
There’s another drug called amivantamab, that has shown potential for exon 20 patients but it is only available privately in the UK. There had been an extended need for patient-centered healthcare policies to prioritize the needs of patients and ensure access to life saving treatments.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only. You should always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical needs.
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