Brexucabtagene autoleucel for relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

Published on 05 Oct 2026
Last Updated on 05 Oct 2026

Guidance Recommendations

The Ministry of Health’s Drug Advisory Committee has not recommended brexucabtagene autoleucel for inclusion on the MOH Cell, Tissue and Gene Therapy Product (CTGTP) List for treating adult patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. The decision was based on the unfavourable cost effectiveness compared with blinatumomab, and the unacceptable price-volume agreement proposed by the company.

Brexucabtagene autoleucel for relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (Published 05 Oct 2026) [PDF, 293.18 KB] (opens in new tab)

Plain English Summary

B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It occurs when early (immature) B cells, a type of white blood cell, grow uncontrollably and form abnormal leukaemia cells. As these cells build up, they leave less room for healthy blood cells. This can cause anaemia due to a lack of red blood cells, and increase the risk of frequent infections. Other symptoms can include bleeding from the gums, bone pain, fever, pale skin, weakness and shortness of breath.

Many people with B-cell precursor ALL achieve remission (when there are no signs of cancer detected and treatment is no longer required) with chemotherapy. However, the cancer can sometimes come back after treatment (relapsed) or continue to worsen despite treatment (refractory), and a different treatment may be needed.

Brexucabtagene autoleucel is an immunotherapy known as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy. It is given as a one-time treatment. First, blood is collected from the patient, and T-cells (a type of white blood cell) are separated from the blood. The T-cells are then genetically modified in a laboratory so they can recognise and target CD-19, a protein found on the surface of leukaemia cells. The modified T-cells are then put back into the patient's bloodstream via a slow drip into a vein (intravenously), where they can find and attack the leukaemia cells.

Brexucabtagene autoleucel was not recommended for inclusion on the MOH Cell, Tissue and Gene Therapy Product (CTGTP) List for government funding because its benefits do not justify its cost.

There are different treatments available for relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor ALL. Your doctor can advise whether brexucabtagene autoleucel or other treatments may be suitable for you.