Genentech has discovered the first-ever Alecensa® (alectinib) for adjuvant treatment after tumour removal in patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (tumours ≥ 4 cm or node positive).
Alecensa now stands as the first ALK inhibitor endorsed for individuals with ALK-positive early-stage NSCLC who have undergone tumour surgery. Its efficacy has shown remarkable results in patients, including those with CNS metastases. With this recent approval, these benefits can potentially reach individuals in the early stages of the disease.
Alecensa, a prescription medicine, is utilised in the treatment of NSCLC caused by an abnormal ALK gene. It serves as an adjuvant therapy to prevent lung cancer recurrence after surgical tumour removal or as a treatment option for metastatic lung cancer.
With an unparallelled 76 percent reduction in the risk of disease recurrence or death compared to chemotherapy, Alecensa substantially enhances the standard of care for those with early-stage ALK-positive lung cancer.
The approval of Alecensa is a significant milestone for newly diagnosed individuals with early-stage ALK-positive lung cancer, who were previously unable to access ALK-specific therapy. These patients, often diagnosed at a younger age, frequently face recurrence and have a heightened risk of brain metastases compared to other NSCLC types.
This significant advancement underscores the importance of all early-stage lung cancer patients undergoing testing for ALK and other recommended biomarkers to receive the most appropriate treatment tailored to their needs.
