Olaparib Receives Positive pCODR Recommendation for Treatment of BRCA-Mutated Ovarian Cancer
The pan-Canadian Oncology Drug Review (pCODR) has provided a positive clinical recommendation for the reimbursement of olaparib (Lynparza), a first-of-its-kind treatment for BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer.
Lynparza is an oral, potent inhibitor of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) available as a maintenance treatment for patients with platinum-sensitive relapsed BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer. Strong clinical data shows improved progression-free survival (PFS) among patients, as well as significant reduction in disease progression (70%).
“This is a great step forward for Canadian women living with BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer,” said Karen Heim, Vice President, Patient Access & Established Brands, AstraZeneca Canada. “Treatment options are limited and each day, five Canadian women die from ovarian cancer. That means every day counts, so we look forward to collaborating and expediting negotiations with the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance, provinces and territories to ensure rapid public reimbursement [olaparib].”
Olaparib was approved by Health Canada in April 2016, and first entered pCODR review in March 2016—the urgent need for access to this novel treatment remains. In Canada, as a bridge to public reimbursement, AstraZeneca has been providing the treatment to more than 200 eligible, uninsured Canadian patients since 2016 through the AstraZeneca Oncology Patient Support program.
“There is a tremendous need for treatments that provide both progression-free survival and improved quality of life,” said Amit Oza, FRPCPC, Head, Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, and also Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto. “Olaparib represents the first new treatment option for ovarian cancer in 20 years and more importantly, it provides hope for Canadian women with platinum-sensitive relapsed BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer.”
The content in this post has not been reviewed by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Inc. (ASCO®) and does not necessarily reflect the ideas and opinions of ASCO®.
