Information for the public
Larotrectinib (Vitrakvi) is available through the Cancer Drugs Fund. It is a possible treatment for neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) fusion-positive solid tumours in adults and children if:
- the disease is locally advanced or metastatic
- surgery to remove the tumour could cause severe health problems
- they have no satisfactory treatment options.
More evidence on larotrectinib is being collected, until there are enough data to address NICE’s uncertainties about the drug. After this NICE will decide whether or not to recommend larotrectinib for use on the NHS and update the guidance. It will be available through the Cancer Drugs Fund until then.
If you are not eligible for larotrectinib but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your doctor 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. Read more about 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 website may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- GIST Cancer UK, 0300 400 0000
- Sarcoma UK, 0808 801 0401
- Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, 0333 323 7200
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
- Cancer Research UK, 0808 800 4040
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: 978-1-4731-3785-1
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