Britain's health regulator announced on Wednesday that it has granted approval to Japan-based Astellas Pharma's therapy for a specific type of gastric cancer. The monoclonal antibody, marketed under the brand name Vyloy, is designed to identify and bind to particular cancer cells, thereby destroying them. The regulator has approved this therapy in conjunction with other anti-cancer drugs for use in adults suffering from stomach or gastro-oesophageal junction cancer. The gastro-oesophageal junction refers to the area where the oesophagus connects with the stomach.
In January, the US Food and Drug Administration rejected the approval of this therapy, pointing to concerns involving a third-party manufacturer. Astellas Pharma has since resubmitted its application, and the US health regulator is expected to render its decision by November 9.
