The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has approved mirvetuximab soravtansine (Elahere) as a treatment for platinum resistant high-grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer.
This landmark decision means that women with folate receptor alpha-positive platinum-resistant ovarian cancer who have had 1–3 previous lines of chemotherapy will now be able to access Elahere.
Usually, NICE decisions are followed in Wales and Northern Ireland. Scotland has a separate approval process.
Why this is important?
If ovarian cancer returns within six months of the last platinum-based treatment (such as carboplatin or cisplatin), it is classed as platinum-resistant. In these cases, different drugs are needed, and until now there have been very few effective treatment options available.
Today’s announcement marks a major milestone in the fight against ovarian cancer. For too long, those with platinum-resistant disease have had far too few options, and the need for new and better treatments has been urgent. The introduction of Elahere brings renewed hope to patients and their families and represents a powerful step forward in improving outcomes for those who need it most.
What was Target Ovarian Cancer’s role?
We've long campaigned for better access to new and effective cancer treatments. Throughout the NICE evaluation process, we:
- submitted evidence on the experiences and needs of people with ovarian cancer
- acted as a patient expert during committee discussions
- championed the importance of improving treatment options for those with platinum-resistant disease
Our involvement ensured that the voices of patients and families were heard every step of the way.
Having access to Elahere would give me renewed hope and the chance of a better quality of life. My diagnosis came as a complete shock - I’ve always been very active and still value my independence. This treatment could mean a new lease of life.
If you’d like to support our work to improve treatment and outcomes for everyone affected by ovarian cancer, join our campaigns network and help drive change.
If you have any questions you can also contact our nurse-led support line for free on 0808 802 6000. The line is open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
