Russian cancer drug Pembroria expected to be available in Vietnam in 2026

According to the representative of the Drug Administration, Pembroria is not a cancer drug with a new indication, but a biological product similar to Keytruda, with a complete clinical profile and continued monitoring for immunological safety. The drug is expected to be available in Vietnam from 2026.

Currently, Vietnam has nearly 100 types of monoclonal antibody drugs for cancer treatment in circulation, with many options suitable for each group of patients.

The cancer drug Pembroria, produced by Limited Liability Company “PK-137” (Russian Federation), was recently licensed for circulation by the Drug Administration on October 31 for a period of 3 years. Pembroria is a biological drug with the active ingredient pembrolizumab - a monoclonal antibody against PD-1.

The drug has the same indication as Keytruda (MSD, USA), licensed by the Ministry of Health since 2017. Pembroria is approved for the following indications: Melanoma, non-small cell lung carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, classical Hodgkin lymphoma, urothelial carcinoma, esophageal carcinoma.

Pembroria is expected to sell for about VND18 million per vial, a third less than Keytruda. A 200 mg treatment cycle (2 vials) will cost about VND36 million.

Pembroria is a biological drug with the same active ingredient as Keytruda. (Photo: incentra)

K Hospital said it is planning to import Pembroria medicine for use in the near future, helping to reduce treatment costs for patients.

According to Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Van Binh, Deputy Director of K Hospital, updating new drugs in cancer treatment is always of special concern to the unit, but it is necessary to comply with professional procedures and official instructions of the Ministry of Health , as well as the Department of Drug Administration.

“ We always prioritize advances in cancer treatment to give patients a better chance of survival. The introduction of new drugs must be based on scientific evidence, treatment recommendations and regulatory approval, ” said Mr. Binh.

Not all cancer patients are indicated to use pembrolizumab. The use of the drug depends on many factors such as the patient's condition, tumor mutation type and disease stage, assessed by a specialist, to individualize the most effective treatment.

K Hospital also emphasized the importance of choosing the right treatment for each patient to increase effectiveness and minimize risks in cancer treatment.

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/thuoc-ung-thu-pembroria-cua-nga-du-kien-co-tai-viet-nam-vao-nam-2026-ar987140.html