The Scottish Medicines Consortium has approved two new treatments for some people affected by lung cancer.
Lung cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage. As a result, treatment options can be limited.
However, these new approvals offer important progress. They provide targeted treatment for people with ALK+ tumours. They also introduce a new option for those with advanced non-small cell squamous tumours.
Treatments Now Available
Doctors in Scotland can now offer Nivolumab (trademark Opdivo) to people with stage 4 squamous non-small cell lung cancer. This treatment is for patients who have already received chemotherapy.
In addition, doctors can now prescribe Crizotinib (trademark Xalkori). This drug will serve as a first-line treatment for people with ALK+ advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
Supporting People Affected by Lung Cancer
Our helpline and online forum show that people affected by lung cancer want access to the best treatments. They hope for improved quality of life and better chances of survival.
Therefore, our nurse-led helpline is available to answer questions. We can provide information about treatments, side effects and living with lung cancer.
You can contact the helpline on 0800 358 7200. Opening hours are Monday to Thursday, 9.00am–5.00pm, and Friday, 9.00am–4.00pm.
Alternatively, you can email support@roycastle.org for advice and support.
Lorraine Dallas, Director of Information and Support, comments:
“We welcome the SMC decision to allow lung cancer patients in Scotland to receive Nivolumab where this is the appropriate treatment, and we call for this policy to be extended to the rest of the UK”.