Information for the public
Osimertinib (Tagrisso) is available through the Cancer Drugs Fund as a possible adjuvant treatment after complete tumour resection in adults with stage 1b to 3a non‑small‑cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumours have epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations. It is recommended only if osimertinib is stopped at 3 years, or earlier if there is disease recurrence or unacceptable toxicity.
More evidence on osimertinib is being collected. After this NICE will decide whether or not to recommend osimertinib 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 osimertinib 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:
- EGFR Positive UK, contact@egfrpositive.org.uk
- 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: 978-1-4731-4403-3
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