GlaxoSmithKline submits Tyverb application

GlaxoSmithKline’s (GSK’s) treatment for advanced breast cancer could be used in Europe if a regulatory application is passed.

The company has submitted the proposal to the European Medicines Agency to expand the use of Tyverb (lapatinib). Data from the recent EGF30008 study was included in the application.

If permitted, the drug could be one of the first-line therapy regimens combined with anti-hormonal treatment for patients with metastatic forms of the disease.

Dr Debasish Roychowdhury, head of the medicines development department at GSK Oncology, explained lapatinib is a biologically-rational targeted treatment when used alongside hormone therapy.

It can control the cancer growth by striking two specific receptors through a combined attack, he continued, adding it could provide a cytotoxic chemotherapy-free option for patients.

“We look forward to working with regulatory agencies to advance the availability of this regimen as a new, oral option for patients in first-line breast cancer,” Dr Roychowdhury concluded.

This week, the European Commission authorised Synflorix as a vaccination to protect children against some life-threatening diseases such as meningitis and bacteraemic pneumonia.