The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Novocure's new Head Flexible Electrode (HFE) transducer arrays for use with Optune Gio in adult patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). The updated arrays are designed to enhance patient comfort through a lighter and thinner profile compared to the existing ceramic disc arrays.
Enhanced Patient Comfort with New HFE Arrays
The HFE arrays utilize a flexible polymer material, making them one-third lighter and 50% thinner than the current Optune Gio arrays. This design aims to improve the user experience for patients undergoing treatment with Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields).
"At Novocure we recognize product innovation must deliver meaningful results for our patients," said Mukund Paravasthu, Chief Operating Officer, Novocure. "The newly FDA approved HFE arrays are lighter, thinner and designed to be more comfortable, clear benefits for the patient. We look forward to introducing the new arrays in the U.S. and will continue our work to deliver product innovations that prioritize the needs of people using our treatments."
Transition Plan and Availability
Novocure intends to transition current Optune Gio users in the U.S. to the new HFE arrays during the first half of 2025 through a structured transition plan.
Optune Gio and Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields)
Optune Gio is a wearable, portable device that delivers Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields), which are alternating electric fields that disrupt cancer cell division. TTFields exert physical forces on electrically charged components within dividing cancer cells, impeding their rapid proliferation. The therapy is approved for adult patients (22 years of age or older) with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).
For newly diagnosed GBM, Optune Gio is used in conjunction with temozolomide (TMZ) following surgical resection of the tumor. For recurrent GBM, Optune Gio can be used as a standalone therapy as an alternative to standard medical treatments after surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy have been exhausted.
Safety Information
Optune Gio is contraindicated in patients with implanted medical devices, skull defects, or bullet fragments. It is also not recommended for individuals with known sensitivity to conductive hydrogels. The most common side effects when used with chemotherapy include low blood platelet count, nausea, constipation, vomiting, tiredness, scalp irritation, headache, seizure, and depression. When used alone, the most common side effects are scalp irritation and headache.
