Exeter scientists help secure life-saving prostate cancer drug for thousands

Research from the University of Exeter has contributed to a major shift in NHS guidance, allowing thousands of men with advanced prostate cancer to access the drug abiraterone, including lower-cost generic versions, while potentially saving the NHS millions of pounds annually.

The Peninsula Technology Assessment Group (PenTAG), a University of Exeter-based research team, conducted a detailed analysis comparing abiraterone with other treatments for newly diagnosed high-risk hormone‑sensitive metastatic prostate cancer. 

Their clinical and economic evaluation enabled the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to recommend abiraterone as a cost-effective option, reversing previous guidance from 2021 when the drug was considered too expensive.

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Alex Allen, who managed the project for PenTAG, said the research demonstrated that generic abiraterone offers similar health benefits to alternative drugs while substantially reducing costs. 

“We hope this pilot programme will now look at other affordable alternatives to meet unmet needs in prostate cancer treatment,” he said.

The decision is expected to expand access to a clinically effective medicine, potentially benefiting around 4,000 patients who previously faced inconsistent availability of the treatment. 

NHS England and local integrated care boards plan to fund implementation within 30 days of NICE publishing final guidance in November.

Generic versions of abiraterone are chemically identical to the brand-name drug but come at a lower cost, allowing the NHS to redirect funds towards other treatments and services. 

Helen Knight, Director of Medicines Evaluation at NICE, said: “Our approach allows us to widen access when more affordable versions of effective treatments become available.”

Minister for Public Health and Prevention Ashley Dalton highlighted the impact on patients and the NHS: “Thousands of men with advanced prostate cancer will now get consistent access to a treatment that can prolong their life, while delivering better value for the NHS.”

This development marks the first NICE pilot programme assessing the cost-effectiveness of generic medicines, offering a potential blueprint for expanding affordable access to other off-patent drugs in the future.