Everolimus: 24 month review of treatment for metastatic (Stage IV) breast cancer
Page last updated: 30 June 2017
Drug utilisation sub-committee (DUSC)
February 2017
Abstract
Purpose
The PBAC requested a 24 month predicted versus actual review of the utilisation of everolimus for metastatic breast cancer. Everolimus was first listed for this indication on 1 June 2014.
Everolimus is PBS subsidised for stage (IV) metastatic breast cancer after resistance to anastrozole or letrozole.
Data Source / methodology
The analyses use data from the Department of Human Services (DHS) prescriptions database and the DHS Authority approvals database from August 2003 to September 2016.
Key Findings
- There were 1,813 patients identified as having been treated with everolimus for metastatic breast cancer over its first two years of listing. This was less than predicted.
- The duration of therapy with everolimus plus exemestane was shorter than predicted. There was a median of four prescriptions per year compared with an estimated seven prescriptions per year.
- The proportional use of the higher (10 mg) strength of everolimus was greater than predicted.
