Today Pharmac has confirmed that Lenvatinib (Lenvima) will be available from 1 December for eligible patients with advanced unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma.
This is a very welcome but long-awaited step forward and the first-time liver cancer patients in Aotearoa will be given funded access to a systemic treatment.
The announcement gives advanced liver cancer patients an option while we wait for hear more on the procurement process for the immunotherapy combination, Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) and Bevacizumab (Avastin)
Atezolizumab with Bevacizumab
Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) & Bevacizumab (Avastin) are immunotherapy drugs that work with your own immune system to fight cancer cells. It is currently funded in Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States and other comparable countries.
Atezolizumab will be funded and Pharmac are currently assessing bids from suppliers of bevacizumab.
Who is the drug for?
Patients with advanced, unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).
*There are other factors like liver functionality and general health which will into account. You can discuss these factors with your medical team.
What is the status?
Pharmac will be publishing a consultation on the intention to fund bevacizumab on 1 December 2024, which GCF will provide feedback on.
When will it be available?
We have indications that funding will be available from April 2025. We will keep you updated as we learn more.
Lenvatinib
Lenvatinib (Lenvima) is in a class of medications called kinase inhibitors. It works by blocking the action of an abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply. This helps stop the spread of cancer cells.
Lenvatinib is currently funded for other indications. Pharmac are proposing to broaden access to include liver cancer patients so they can have a treatment option while the procurement process for bevicizumab is carried out.
Who is the drug for?
Patients with advanced, unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).
*There are other factors like liver functionality and general health which will into account. You can discuss these factors with your medical team.
What is the status?
Gut Cancer Foundation has, on behalf of our medical community and liver cancer patients, submitted feedback to the consultation for lenvatinib to request access is broadened to include patients who have received prior treatment.
When will it be available?
1 December 2024
Costshare programme
Eisai New Zealand produce lenvatinib under the brand name Lenvima. There is an existing cost-share programme where patients pay a maximum cost of $27,900 + GST. From there, Eisai will continue to provide Lenvima at no charge.
A compassionate access scheme also exists for patients. Eisai consider applications on a case-by-case basis for those with financial hardship.
To apply for the cost-share programme or compassionate access, please complete the form below in consultation with your oncologist.