Information for the public
Osimertinib (Tagrisso) is available on the NHS as a possible adjuvant treatment option for stage 1b to 3a non-small-cell lung cancer after the tumour has been completely surgically removed. It is for adults whose tumours have epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitutions. An adjuvant treatment is one that is offered after surgery to lower the risk that the cancer will come back.
Osimertinib should be stopped at 3 years, or earlier if the cancer comes back or if there are severe side effects.
If you are not eligible for osimertinib but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your healthcare professional decide when best to stop.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. See our webpage on making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS webpage on lung cancer may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- EGFR Positive UK, contact@egfrpositive.org.uk
- Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, 0333 323 7200
- Lung Cancer Nursing UK, 01675 477607
- Cancer Research UK, 0808 800 4040
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-6862-6
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