People living with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in Australia now have access to an additional treatment option through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), from 1 March 2026.
DLBCL is the most common lymphoma and affects thousands of Australians each year. While many people respond well to initial treatment, around 40 per cent will experience a relapse and may need further therapy.
Glofitamab is now available on the PBS in combination with chemotherapy for adults whose lymphoma has returned after initial treatment and who are not eligible for a stem cell transplant. Glofitamab is a type of immunotherapy designed to help the immune system recognise and target cancer cells.
Blood Cancer Research WA (BCRWA) (through Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital) was involved in the phase III international STARGLO clinical trial, which evaluated this treatment approach in people with relapsed DLBCL. Clinical trials are an essential part of improving outcomes for people with blood cancer, helping to build the evidence needed to support new treatment options becoming more widely available.
For eligible patients, the PBS listing means the cost is subsidised, with patients paying the standard co-payment, currently $25 per script or $7.70 for concession card holders.
The availability of glofitamab brings a potentially life-saving treatment to patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and underlines the importance of clinical trials to improve treatments for all affected by blood cancers. The team at BCRWA is delighted to have played a small part in assisting with making the drug more broadly available globally.