Aspire expands oncology portfolio with prostate cancer hormone therapy.

Aspire Pharma Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to combating prostate cancer by adding leuprorelin acetate as a branded generic to its oncology portfolio. This move solidifies Aspire's position as a leading specialty generics enterprise. 

Leuprorelin acetate is a hormone therapy recommended for patients with high-risk localized, locally advanced, and metastatic prostate cancer. It serves as an alternative to surgical castration for locally advanced cases. A pre-filled syringe containing 11.25mg of leuprorelin acetate (equivalent to 10.72 mg leuprorelin) is injected subcutaneously into the abdomen, providing a vital treatment option for patients. 

One of Aspire's primary objectives is to seek "new investment opportunities" that bring products and companies into its portfolio. This aligns closely with Aspire's values and therapeutic focus areas, ensuring a commitment to innovation and patient care. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK, with over 52,000 men receiving a diagnosis annually, according to Prostate Cancer UK. Shockingly, one man dies from prostate cancer every 45 minutes, amounting to more than 12,000 men per year. 

Mainly affecting men over 50, the risk of prostate cancer increases with age. To address this significant health challenge, Prostate Cancer UK is collaborating with the UK government to launch a massive screening trial this year. Backed by £16 million of government funding, the £42 million TRANSFORM trial is poised to become the largest prostate cancer diagnosis trial in two decades. It will involve hundreds of thousands of men, with recruitment expected to commence in Autumn 2024. 

Innovative screening methods, such as an MRI scan, will be used in the trial to detect prostate cancer early. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins has previously stated that advanced screening methods could save thousands of men's lives each year if prostate cancer is detected early. Through collaboration with the NHS, Aspire aims to enhance services for prostate cancer patients, bringing care closer to home while delivering a more cost-effective prescribing option for commissioners. This commitment underscores Aspire's dedication to improving patient outcomes and addressing the challenges posed by prostate cancer in the UK.