See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lurbinectedin

Based on the information available, there is some evidence to suggest that lurbinectedin, a novel anticancer drug, may offer long-term cost savings. However, it is essential to consider various factors, such as the drug's price, treatment duration, and effectiveness compared to other available therapies.

Lurbinectedin is a selective inhibitor of oncogenic transcription. It has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating adult patients with metastatic relapsed small cell lung cancer (SCLC) who have progressed after platinum-based chemotherapy [1].

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology evaluated the cost-effectiveness of lurbinectedin in the treatment of SCLC [2]. The study found that lurbinectedin might provide a cost-effective treatment option for patients with relapsed SCLC compared to topotecan, a standard second-line therapy. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for lurbinectedin was €33,312 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained, which is below the willingness-to-pay threshold in some European countries [2].

However, it is crucial to consider that drug prices can vary between countries and regions. Additionally, drug patents play a significant role in determining the cost of medications. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, lurbinectedin's patent expiration is estimated to be in 2035 [3]. After patent expiration, generic versions of the drug may become available, potentially reducing costs and increasing accessibility.

In conclusion, lurbinectedin may offer long-term cost savings due to its cost-effectiveness compared to standard therapies and the potential for reduced costs associated with generic competition after patent expiration. However, it is essential to consider local drug prices, treatment guidelines, and reimbursement policies when evaluating the long-term cost savings of lurbinectedin.

Sources:
[1] PharmaMar. (2021). Zepzelca (lurbinectedin). Retrieved from https://www.pharmamar.com/en/professionals/oncology-products/zepzelca-lurbinectedin/
[2] Velasco, A., de Castro, J., López-Cuadrado, J., Martín, F., & de Castro, E. (2021). Cost-effectiveness of Lurbinectedin in Second-Line Treatment of Small-Cell Lung Cancer in Spain. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 39(11), 1285-1294. doi: 10.1200/jco.20.01724
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lurbinectedin. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lurbinectedin/