Several new medicines, including two cancer treatments, have been approved for routine use on the NHS in Scotland. On Monday, the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) announced the approval of Opdualag, which combines nivolumab and relatlimab, for treating advanced skin cancer in patients aged 12 and older.
Pembrolizumab, marketed as Keytruda, was accepted as a first-line treatment for adults with HER2-negative advanced gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction cancer when used alongside chemotherapy. However, it was not recommended for HER2-positive disease when combined with chemotherapy and trastuzumab.
Voretigene neparvovec, sold as Luxturna, was approved for treating adults and children with inherited retinal dystrophy, a rare genetic eye condition. The SMC chair noted the “devastating and life-changing” impact of the condition’s progressive blindness.
Pegunigalsidase alfa, branded as Elfabrio, was accepted for treating adults with Fabry disease, a rare inherited disorder that can cause kidney failure and heart problems.
Empagliflozin, known by its brand name Jardiance, was approved for treating adults with chronic kidney disease, a long-term condition where kidney function deteriorates.
Follitropin delta, or Rekovelle, was accepted for ovarian stimulation in women undergoing fertility treatments like in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
Additionally, an initial assessment report on birch bark extract, branded as Filsuvez, has been completed for its treatment of epidermolysis bullosa, a rare skin condition that causes severe blistering and scarring. The SMC stated that the Scottish Government will confirm its availability for prescription, and further evidence on the drug’s use will be gathered.
SMC chair, Dr. Scott Muir, said, “The committee is pleased to be able to accept these new medicines for use by NHS Scotland.”
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