Cancer patients whose disease has spread from a solid tumour to their bones have now been given a new treatment option after NICE backed the use of Amgen’s Xgeva (denosumab).

Xgeva has been recommended to treat the condition known as bone metastases in people suffering from breast cancer or solid tumours other than prostate who would otherwise be prescribed bisphosphonates.

Professor Carole Longson, Director of the Centre for Health Technology Evaluation at NICE, said Xgeva was a “welcome addition” alongside existing treatment options.

Final guidance states that Xgeva should only be prescribed under the terms agreed between the Department of Health and Amgen as part of a patient access scheme.

Amgen estimates there are around 150,000 patients in the UK with solid tumours and bone metastases, of which breast and prostate cancer account for more than 80%.

“We’re pleased to be able to recommend another treatment option for people with bone metastasis from most solid cancer tumours,” said Professor Longson. “This type of metastasis can reduce a person’s mobility and quality of life in general, increasing the risk of complications from bone weakness.”

NICE has recommended the use of Xgeva (denosumab) in draft guidance for certain cancer patients whose disease has spread to their bones.

The recommendation covers patients with bone metastasis from breast cancer; people with painful bone metastasis from hormone-refractory prostate cancer when treatment has failed; and for those with bone metastasis from other solid tumours for whom zoledronic acid is indicated.

Professor Carole Longson, Director of the Centre for Health Technology Evaluation at NICE, says the condition can have a “major impact on quality of life” and is therefore “pleased” to recommend the treatment.

The guidance stipulates that Xgeva should only be prescribed under the terms of an agreed Patient Access Scheme between Amgen and the DH.

Amgen estimates there are more than 150,000 patients in the UK with solid tumours or bone metastases, of which breast and prostate cancer account for more than 80%.

The spine, pelvis, hip, upper leg bones and skull are most commonly affected by bone metastases with symptoms including pain, and weakening and eventual destruction of the bone.

The majority of patients with the condition are currently treated with bisphosphonates. NICE’s independent Appraisal Committee considered Xgeva as an alternative to standard treatment options where bisphosphonates are not used.

It noted that in clinical trials where Xgeva was directly compared to standard treatment options it improved skeletal-related outcomes. It was also shown to be more clinically effective in patients with breast, prostate and non-small cell lung cancer.

The initial recommendation is now open for consultation.