On 1 September 2024, the PBS published its agenda for the September PBAC Intracycle Meeting, which will include an item providing for “initial guidance on parameters that need to be considered for future broad PBS listing proposals for PD-(L)1 inhibitors, and to advise on next steps to seek broader stakeholder input”.
This agenda item is a multi-brand initiative that likely stems from efforts by MSD and BMS to secure expanded listings for Keytruda® (pembrolizumab) and Opdivo® (nivolumab) respectively. This would allow wider access to indications with existing or future TGA approval for their checkpoint inhibitor therapies. These submissions were deferred by PBAC in its December 2023 meeting.
In August 2024, BMS’ Opdivo® joined Keytruda® in being listed on the PBS for treating resectable non-small cell lung cancer.