India has introduced a new lung cancer treatment that could make therapy faster and more convenient for patients. According to reports, Roche Pharma India has launched an injectable version of its immunotherapy drug Tecentriq, which can reportedly be administered in just seven minutes.
Earlier, patients had to receive the medicine through intravenous (IV) infusion, a process that usually required several hours at hospitals or treatment centres. The newly launched injection is given under the skin, generally in the thigh, reducing hospital time and making the treatment process easier, particularly for elderly patients and those travelling long distances for therapy.
The treatment is primarily meant for patients suffering from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), considered the most common type of lung cancer in India. However, doctors said not every patient qualifies for the therapy. Before starting treatment, patients are tested for PD-L1 protein levels in the tumour, as those with higher levels are believed to respond better to the drug.
Reports said Tecentriq contains atezolizumab, an immunotherapy medicine that helps the body’s immune system identify and attack cancer cells instead of directly targeting them like chemotherapy. Medical experts said immunotherapy has shown promising results in slowing cancer growth while often causing fewer severe side effects compared to traditional treatments.
One of the biggest challenges, however, remains the cost of treatment. Reports stated that a single dose costs around ₹3.7 lakh, and many patients may require multiple doses depending on the stage and severity of the disease.
The high price is largely linked to years of scientific research, complex manufacturing and advanced medical technology involved in developing immunotherapy drugs. To support patients, the company has launched a patient assistance programme called “Blue Tree” and has also included the medicine under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).
Despite concerns over affordability, healthcare experts believe the launch marks a significant step forward in improving cancer treatment options and patient comfort in India.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com