Does tepotinib treat malignant tumors? Can it be reimbursed?

Tepotinib (tepotinib) is being studied as a drug to treat malignant tumors, mainly targeting tumors with MET gene abnormalities, especially MET fusion gene-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). MET fusion gene refers to an abnormal gene formed by the fusion of MET gene and other genes, resulting in excessive activation of MET receptors. Tepotinib has the ability to highly selectively inhibit MET receptor kinase activity, thereby interfering with processes such as cell growth, proliferation, and migration related to MET signaling.

The efficacy of tepotinib was evaluated in a single-arm, open-label, multicenter, non-randomized, multiple-short-term study. Among previously treated patients, 89% who had previously received platinum-based chemotherapy received timetac 450 mg once daily until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Approximately 44% of patients showed partial or complete cancer shrinkage after treatment with tepotinib.

The original drug Tepotinib is a new type of drug that has not yet been marketed in China, so it has not been included in the medical insurance. Domestic patients cannot yet purchase this drug in pharmacies or hospitals. The price of Tepotinib's original drug specification 225mg*30 tablets per box is around RMB 80,000 per box (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rate effects). It has been on the market for a short time and is expensive. There are also generic Tepotinib drugs produced in other countries. The price of a box of 225mg*60 tablets produced by a Lao pharmaceutical factory is around RMB 8,600 (the price may fluctuate due to the exchange rate). The ingredients of generic drugs produced abroad are basically the same as those of the original drug. For specific prices and drug details, please consult Yaode’s medical consultant.