2 The technology

Description of the technology

Cabozantinib (Cabometyx, Ipsen) is a small molecule that inhibits multiple receptor tyrosine kinases.

Marketing authorisation

Cabozantinib 'is indicated for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in adults following prior vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-targeted therapy'.

Adverse reactions

The most common serious adverse reactions associated with cabozantinib are abdominal pain (3%), pleural effusion (3%), diarrhoea (2%) and nausea (2%). For full details of adverse reactions and contraindications, see the summary of product characteristics.

Recommended dose and schedule

Administered orally, 60 mg once daily.

Price

The list price is £5,143.00 per 30‑tab pack applicable to all dosages (20 mg, 40 mg and 60 mg).

The company has agreed a patient access scheme with the Department of Health. This scheme provides a simple discount to the list price of cabozantinib, with the discount applied at the point of purchase or invoice. The level of the discount is commercial in confidence. The Department of Health considered that this patient access scheme would not constitute an excessive administrative burden on the NHS.