First immunotherapy subcutaneous injection added to PBS, easing pressure on cancer services

Pharma News: Roche has beaten competitors to secure reimbursement for the subcutaneous (SC) formulation of its oncology drug, Tecentriq (atezolizumab).

Effective 1 August, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) listing will allow more than 4,000 Australians with lung and liver cancer to receive immunotherapy by injection for the first time.

Oncologists and cancer advocates said the first PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor injected under the skin has the potential to change the treatment experience for many patients, as well as help ease the strain on cancer services.

“Administered under the skin in just seven minutes, Tecentriq SC is likely to save time for patients and help conserve healthcare resources,” said Associate Professor Surein Arulananda, Deputy Director of Medical Oncology at Monash Health in Victoria.

He explained that until now, cancer immunotherapy has been administered by a drip directly into the vein over a 30–60-minute period, often in a dedicated infusion centre.

“While immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment, the availability of a subcutaneous treatment option that can reduce treatment time, and even allow for treatment outside of hospital, will make an even greater difference to patients and everyone concerned with their care,” A/Professor Arulananda said.

Roche’s pharmacokinetic endpoints looked at drug concentration just before administration of the next dose and model-predicted total exposure to a drug. Subcutaneous Tecentriq was noninferior to the approved formulation against both endpoints. 

Nic Horridge, General Manager, Roche Pharmaceuticals Australia, commended the Federal Government for recognising the unique value that Tecentriq SC offers Australian patients, healthcare providers and the healthcare system.

“We are pleased to play our part in providing lung and liver cancer patients with affordable access to Australia’s first subcutaneous PD-L1 immunotherapy,” Horridge said.

He further added, “We understand the challenges that cancer patients face and are driven to connect these people with medical innovations that reduce their treatment burden. With time of the essence for many cancer patients, we are proud to provide a treatment option that allows them more time to focus on themselves and their loved ones.

“We remain committed to sustainable healthcare and believe Tecentriq SC will play a critical role in freeing up infusion chairs and reducing the strain on cancer services.”

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