Lung cancer treatment has evolved beyond traditional methods like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, introducing novel approaches such as wearable technology. The FDA recently approved Novocure’s Optune Lua, a medical device designed to treat metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has progressed after platinum-based chemotherapy. This innovative device uses “Tumor Treating Fields” (TTFields) to deliver alternating electrical currents to cancer cells through wearable arrays placed on the skin. These fields disrupt the division of cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. Patients typically wear the device for about 18 hours daily.

In clinical trials, Optune Lua was tested in combination with either a checkpoint inhibitor or the chemotherapy drug docetaxel. Results showed a significant improvement in median overall survival by 3.3 months compared to treatment with either therapy alone. Notably, when combined with a checkpoint inhibitor, Optune Lua extended survival by eight months. While there were some device-related side effects, primarily skin irritations, most were low-grade, and only 4% of patients experienced severe reactions that required treatment breaks.

Optune Lua represents a significant breakthrough in NSCLC treatment, marking the first substantial survival improvement in over eight years for this patient group. Novocure has also tested TTFields in other cancers, including glioblastoma and mesothelioma, where it has previously gained regulatory approvals. The company is currently exploring additional uses for this technology, such as in pancreatic cancer and brain metastases, which could further expand its applications and revenue potential.

Article written by Frank Vinluan

16/10/2024

Source:

Med city news

https://medcitynews.com/2024/10/wearable-medical-device-novocure-fda-approval-lung-cancer-optune-lua/