Pharmaceutical company, Takeda, has announced that it intends to withdraw its targeted therapy, Mobocertinib, from the global market.
The decision comes after a research study did not show the anticipated response. The study has not been able to demonstrate an improvement in outcome, when used as a first line treatment in patients with exon 20 insertion mutation-positive non small cell lung cancer – a rare, subtype of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) lung cancer that does not respond to typical EGFR+ treatments.
Currently, this treatment is the only targeted therapy in the UK, available to treat this specific type of lung cancer. Withdrawal of Mobocertinib will mean that patients with EGFR Exon20 insertion mutation-positive (insertion+) locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer will be treated with chemotherapy.
Paula Chadwick is the chief executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation:
“We are very disappointed to hear that Mobocertinib is to be withdrawn as a treatment option for this rare type of lung cancer and understand the anguish and frustration this is causing patients and their families.
We are here to support anyone affected by this announcement. Our nurses are available to answer any questions people may have, as well as address concerns and fears around chemotherapy, which will be the treatment option for Exon-20 patients.
“It is part of our role to help ensure people have access to the best type of treatment for their specific lung cancer. We have seen some incredible advances in the treatment of lung cancer in recent years and await the results of research studies with other drugs targeting EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations. We remain optimistic that advances will continue.”
