Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2015
755. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the drug T-DMI, trastuzumab emtansine, and the claims that it will prolong cancer patient lives by six months, and reduces toxic side effects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30553/15]
View answer782. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health when the cancer treatment drug Kadcyla will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30670/15]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 755 and 782 together.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has statutory responsibility for decisions on the pricing and reimbursement of medicinal products under the GMS and community drugs schemes in accordance with the provisions of the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013.
I am happy to inform you that the HSE has decided to reimburse the drug Trastuzumab Emtansine (Kadcyla®). This drug is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with HER2-positive, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer who previously received trastuzumab and a taxane, separately or in combination. Patients should have either:
(1) received prior therapy for locally advanced or metastatic disease, or
(2) developed disease recurrence during or within six months of completing adjuvant therapy.
Kadcyla® was added to the National Cancer Control Programme Oncology Drug Management System on 1 August 2015.
