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<p>A number of immunotherapy drugs are licensed for the treatment of different cancers
and are available for use on the National Health Service, subject to funding decisions
by the relevant commissioner. Pembrolizumab and nivolumab are two new immunotherapies
that are able to treat a number of cancers. The first cancer where these medicines
have shown significant increase in patient survival is advanced stage of melanoma.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has issued early access scientific
opinions for both products for treatment of advanced stage melanoma. The Early Access
to Medicines scientific opinion for pembrolizumab (Merck Sharp & Dohme) was issued
in March 2015 and that for nivolumab (Bristol Myers Squibb) in May 2015.</p><p> </p><p>
</p><p> </p><p>Applications for marketing authorisations for both products have already
received positive opinions from the European Medicines Agency and marketing authorisations
are anticipated to be issued by the European Commission soon.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>
</p><p>Through its technology appraisal programme, the National Institute for Health
and Care Excellence (NICE) has been able to recommend a number of immunotherapy treatments
including, ipilimumab and obinutuzumab. NICE is currently developing technology appraisal
guidance on other immunotherapy treatments including nivolumab and pembrolizumab.
Wherever possible, NICE aims to publish draft or final guidance on drugs referred
to it within a few months of the drug receiving a license. NHS commissioners are legally
required to fund drugs and treatments recommended in NICE technology appraisal guidance.</p><p>
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