Analysis of atezolizumab for hepatocellular carcinoma, June 2025
Page last updated: 2 December 2025
Drug utilisation sub-committee (DUSC)
June 2025
Abstract
Purpose
At its February 2023 meeting, DUSC considered that a review of atezolizumab for advanced (unresectable) Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Stage B or Stage C hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) should be undertaken in two years.
Date of listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
Atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab, (henceforth atezolizumab) was first listed on the PBS for advanced (unresectable) BCLC Stage B or Stage C HCC on 1 November 2020.
Data Source / methodology
Authorities data and prescriptions data were extracted from the prescription database and
Authorities database maintained by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, processed by Services Australia from between 1 November 2020 and 28 February 2025, respectively. Data were extracted based on the date of supply.
Key Findings
- The treatment duration was different than predicted.
- The number of scripts dispensed was different than predicted.
- The replacement of lenvatinib or sorafenib for atezolizumab was different than predicted.
- Therapy with lenvatinib or sorafenib for HCC has been displaced to older, possibly more unwell patients.
