Merck KGaA receives another Erbitux recommendation

Merck KGaA has received its second positive recommendation for Erbitux (cetuximab) from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) in the last 12 months.

The body published a final appraisal determination suggesting the drug be used alongside chemotherapy to treat patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who have met certain criteria.

Dr Wolfgang Wein, executive vice-president of Merck Serono’s oncology department, noted the referral is “really positive news” for sufferers of the disease, especially as the medication is the only therapy of its kind to be endorsed by NICE.

“We strongly believe that personalising cancer care by tumour type – is essential in order to provide patients with the best possible outcomes – while offering healthcare providers the most efficient use of resources,” he commented.

Last week, Merck KGaA announced the results of a number of studies had broadened the knowledge about how useful biomarkers are to Erbitux.

It added patients would benefit from targeted therapies, as they could be personalised to the individual’s needs and reduce the risk of side effects.