HM Government of Gibraltar is pleased to confirm that the Gibraltar Health Authority has already begun using the subcutaneous form of Pembrolizumab for the treatment of some cancers.

The first dose was administered at St Bernard’s Hospital last week.

Pembrolizumab, also known by the brand name Keytruda, is an immunotherapy treatment used in a number of cancers. Traditionally, it has been administered intravenously, requiring patients to spend longer periods receiving treatment through a drip.

The newer subcutaneous form is administered by injection and can significantly reduce the time patients spend receiving treatment. This offers a more convenient experience for patients, while also supporting more efficient use of clinical time and treatment capacity.

The GHA Director General, Dr Paul Bosio, said:

“This is a positive development for cancer care in Gibraltar and another example of how the GHA is adopting innovations that improve the patient experience. Subcutaneous Pembrolizumab allows eligible patients to receive their treatment more quickly and comfortably, while also helping our clinical teams make better use of treatment capacity.

“I am grateful to our oncology, pharmacy and nursing teams for their work in introducing this treatment safely and effectively for patients in Gibraltar.”

The Minister for Health and Care, the Hon Gemma Arias-Vasquez, said:

“I am very pleased that the GHA has already begun using the subcutaneous form of Pembrolizumab for the treatment of some cancers, with the first dose administered last week.

“This is exactly the kind of patient-centred improvement we want to see across our health service. For patients undergoing cancer treatment, reducing the time they need to spend in hospital is not a small thing. It means less disruption, less time in a treatment chair and more time at home with their families and loved ones.

“I want to thank everyone involved at the GHA for their work in making this treatment available locally.”