NHS Reverses Decision, Approves Truqap for Cancer

Capivasertib, a new twice-daily pill developed by AstraZeneca, has been approved by the NHS for treating hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative advanced breast cancer, marking a significant advancement in cancer treatment. This drug targets the AKT protein, slowing or stopping the progression of cancer, and is suitable for patients with specific genetic mutations such as PIK3CA, AKT1, or PTEN, found in about half of these patients. Clinical trials showed that capivasertib, when used with fulvestrant, extended progression-free survival from 3.1 months to 7.3 months. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) initially rejected the drug due to cost concerns but reversed its decision, allowing up to 3,000 women annually to benefit. Experts and patients alike have hailed this approval as a 'landmark moment' in breast cancer treatment, potentially delaying the need for chemotherapy and offering patients more time with reduced side effects. The decision underscores the importance of timely drug approval processes to provide patients with innovative treatments sooner.