Pharmaceutical company Takeda has announced it will withdraw its targeted therapy, Mobocertinib, from the global market. The company made this decision after a research study failed to deliver the expected results. Specifically, the study did not show improved outcomes when doctors used Mobocertinib as a first-line treatment for patients with exon 20 insertion mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer. This rare subtype of EGFR lung cancer does not respond to standard EGFR treatments.
Impact on Patients in the UK
Currently, Mobocertinib remains the only targeted therapy in the UK for this specific lung cancer type. As a result, patients with locally advanced or metastatic EGFR Exon 20 insertion mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer must now rely on chemotherapy. This change significantly affects treatment options and patient experience.
Support from Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
Paula Chadwick, chief executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, said:
“We are very disappointed that Takeda is withdrawing Mobocertinib, and we understand how this frustrates and worries patients and their families.
“At the same time, we are ready to support anyone affected. Our nurses can answer questions and guide patients through concerns about chemotherapy, which is now the treatment option for Exon 20 patients.
“Furthermore, our role is to help patients access the best treatments for their specific lung cancer. In recent years, we have seen incredible advances in care. We are closely following new research into EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations and remain hopeful that progress will continue.”