New Drug Uses DNA Rather Than Tumor Type to Treat Cancer

Most cancer treatments on the market are developed for specific types of cancer and seek approval for that one kind before organizing trials for other cancers. However, a recent Business Insider article discussed a new cancer treatment that focuses on the genetics of the patient. Loxo Oncology developed the drug, Vitrakvi, in partnership with Bayer.

Vitrakvi works for patients whose cancer tests positive for a type of mutation called a gene fusion in a gene called the neurotropic receptor tyrosine kinase, NTRK. For adults, the drug comes in 30-day supplies of 100-milligram capsules, and the cost is $393,600 annually. The liquid oral formulation for children and some adults will cost $121,000 annually. However, Bayer insists the out-of-pocket expense for the majority of patients will be $20 or less.