Australians Get Access to First New Brain Cancer Drug in 20 Years

Australians with rare and incurable brain cancers have gained subsidised access to vorasidenib, the first new treatment in over two decades. This breakthrough drug, marketed as Voranigo, will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) starting this week. It targets IDH-mutant astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma, rare tumours driven by genetic mutations.

The targeted therapy works by inhibiting the mutation that fuels tumour growth, aiming to slow disease progression. Approximately 135 adults and adolescents aged 12 and older, who have not received prior systemic therapy or radiotherapy, are expected to be eligible annually. Without PBS support, a 30-day supply could cost around $28,000.

The Cure Brain Cancer Foundation had advocated for this listing, highlighting the limited alternatives available to patients. The new PBS access will reduce costs to a maximum of $25 per prescription, or $7.70 with a concession card. Health Minister Mark Butler stated this provides patients with crucial extra time and reduces financial stress.

Additionally, the PBS is expanding access to treatments for other serious conditions, including selpercatinib for medullary thyroid cancer and tafasitamab for follicular lymphoma. Subsidies will also extend to adalimumab and infliximab for children with Crohn disease.