This archive report was first published on 19 July 2019.
On July 19, 2019, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) approved the use of ZYTIGA, a once-daily medication manufactured by Janssen, for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer in Kenya.
Previously, ZYTIGA was only licensed for treatment of advanced prostate cancer cases post chemotherapy. However, the recent approval by the PPB allows for its use as a broad indication treatment drug for prostate cancer.
Speaking on the approval, Janssen Kenya Country Manager Marseille Onyango said, "Globally, Janssen Pharmaceutical is dedicated to delivering therapeutic options with exceptional services."
Onyango also confirmed that ZYTIGA had progressively received international recognition as a broad indication treatment drug for prostate cancer.
Earlier this year, Janssen Kenya had also received the nod from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) which listed ZYTIGA as a reimbursable innovator drug. This joint commitment aims to enhance access of the crucial drug for local prostate cancer patients.
"The local approval by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board helps fill a critical medical need, providing local physicians with an important tool for treating men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have not received chemotherapy," said Onyango.
Under the Janssen Kenya Prostate cancer program in conjunction with Axios International, a specialised healthcare access company, ZYTIGA will continue being available for all patients including NHIF members who enjoy significant cost savings.
According to Dr Eric Muchangi, Janssen Kenya Country Medical Affairs Manager, ZYTIGA works by inhibiting the enzyme complex required for the production of androgens in the testes, adrenals and the prostate tumor tissue.
"Having ZYTIGA as a new therapeutic option in Kenya, before chemotherapy will provide hope for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer and their families as they continue to battle the disease," Dr Muchangi said.
