SMC Approve lenvatinib for kidney cancer

Lenvatinib, a  drug for treating kidney cancer, was among five new medications approved by the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) this month.
The decision on lenvatinib (Kisplyx Eisai), following a referral through the ‘Patient and Clinician Engagement’ (PACE) process for rare and end of life conditions, was accepted for advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in those previously treated with a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor.
Lenvatinib is given together with everolimus (Afinitor) and may delay the return of cancer or extend overall survival time.
Maureen Johnson, Kidney Cancer Scotland’s Health Professional said; “We are delighted that the SMC is recommending lenvatinib in combination with everolimus as a second line treatment for patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma. This news will be welcomed by patients and their families, who can be assured that NHS Scotland has access to this clinically effective combination to support their treatment.”