Minjuvi® is the first and only chemotherapy-free, CD19 and CD20 dual-targeted immunotherapy combination regimen reimbursed in Australia on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for eligible adults with Refractory or Relapsed Follicular Lymphoma. In combination with rituximab and lenalidomide, Minjuvi delivers a complementary immune-mediated approach that helps control disease progression and supports improved long-term outcomes for patients with follicular lymphoma.
“While follicular lymphoma can be a slow-growing disease that usually responds well to the first treatment, most patients are not cured. Many patients experience frequent relapses and require multiple therapies over their lifetime, which become progressively less effective, especially for those whose disease comes back soon after initial chemotherapy treatment,” said Associate Professor Philip Thompson, Clinical Haematologist at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital in Melbourne. “Today’s PBS listing announcement is welcome news for the Australian clinical and patient community, providing us with a new, chemotherapy-free immunotherapy treatment for R/R FL.”
Minjuvi is administered via intravenous (IV) infusion in a clinic or hospital setting. Patients with R/R FL receive up to 12 treatment cycles of Minjuvi, along with oral lenalidomide capsules, while rituximab is delivered intravenously for the first five cycles.
“Knowing that a chemotherapy-free immunotherapy is now funded by the PBS is an important development for the follicular lymphoma community,” said Sharon Winton, Chief Executive Officer of Lymphoma Australia. “As patients manage the challenges of recurring disease, this new treatment milestone offers a valuable option that is deeply meaningful to them and their families.”
Patients living with FL and their families should discuss options with their treating specialist to understand the most suitable treatment available for them. See the Consumer Medicine Information or Product Information for further details.
