Thousands to Benefit from New Prostate Cancer Drug Darolutamide
Men with metastatic prostate cancer can now access a “gentler” treatment on the NHS, following approval by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
The drug darolutamide, also known by its brand name Nubeqa, has been approved for use in combination with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) a form of hormone treatment that suppresses testosterone, slowing the spread of cancer cells.
NICE estimates that around 6,000 men in England will be eligible for the treatment.
Darolutamide Offers a Gentler Alternative
Developed by pharmaceutical company Bayer, darolutamide is taken as two tablets twice daily alongside ADT. The combination helps block the hormones that fuel prostate cancer growth, effectively starving the cancer of the testosterone it needs to multiply and spread.
According to Prostate Cancer UK, the treatment causes fewer side effects than many existing therapies, making it particularly suitable for older men or those unable to tolerate harsher treatments.
“This new option is gentler and could offer improved quality of life for men with advanced prostate cancer,” said a spokesperson from the charity.
Health Officials Praise Approval
Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said the approval marks an important step in expanding treatment options for prostate cancer patients.
“We are determined to ensure effective treatments such as darolutamide, which can extend both life and quality of life, are made available quickly to those who need them,” she said.
Peter Johnson, national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, added that the decision will give patients “more flexibility” in choosing the treatment best suited to their needs.
Charities Warn of Postcode Inequality
Despite the positive development, campaigners have warned that inequality in access could prevent some men from receiving the new treatment.
Amy Rylance, assistant director of health improvement at Prostate Cancer UK, said:
“Too many men will still miss out on life-extending treatments because of where they live, their age, or their ethnicity. NICE approval is only the first step the government must ensure proven treatments reach everyone who needs them.”
Oliver Kemp, chief executive of Prostate Cancer Research, echoed the call for fairer access:
“We welcome this decision but must continue to raise awareness and push for timely diagnoses, effective treatments, and the support services men and their families deserve.”
Prostate Cancer in England
More than 55,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in England each year, making it the most common cancer in men. While darolutamide’s approval marks progress, experts emphasise the need for continued efforts to reduce disparities in cancer treatment across regions and communities.
