Global healthcare major GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has announced its entry into the Indian oncology segment with the launch of two advanced therapies—Jemperli (dostarlimab) and Zejula (niraparib)—to address the rising burden of gynaecological cancers in the country.

Gynaecological cancers, particularly ovarian and endometrial cancers, rank among the top three cancer types affecting women in India. According to projections, incidence rates for endometrial and ovarian cancers could rise by 78% and 69% respectively, by 2045, underscoring the urgent need for innovative treatment options.

Jemperli: A First in India for Endometrial Cancer

Jemperli has become India’s first and only PD-1 immunotherapy approved for the treatment of mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) or microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) advanced endometrial cancer in the second-line setting. By blocking the PD-1 pathway—a mechanism that helps tumours evade immune detection—Jemperli enables the immune system to mount a more effective response against cancer.

The therapy’s approval is supported by outcomes from the GARNET trial, which reported an objective response rate of 45.5%, with sustained responses at both 12 and 24 months in patients who had limited treatment alternatives following chemotherapy.

Zejula: Expanding Access in Ovarian Cancer Care

Zejula is the only once-daily oral PARP inhibitor approved in India as a first-line maintenance monotherapy for advanced ovarian cancer, irrespective of biomarker status. Data from the phase-3 PRIMA study showed that Zejula significantly extended remission periods in women newly diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer, including those at high risk of disease progression. Its oral dosing format offers a convenient option for long-term use.

Patient-Centric Support Program

To improve accessibility, GSK has rolled out ‘Phoenix’, a patient support initiative aimed at easing the financial and treatment-related challenges faced by cancer patients in India.

Industry Perspectives

Bhushan Akshikar, Managing Director of GSK India, highlighted the company’s commitment, “The introduction of Jemperli and Zejula marks a strategic milestone for GSK in India as we expand into oncology. These therapies bring transformative options for women battling endometrial and ovarian cancers, strengthening our focus on speciality medicines and innovation-driven healthcare.”

Adding a clinical perspective, Dr. Shalini Menon, EVP – Medical Affairs, GSK India, noted, “The rising prevalence of gynaecological cancers in India demands newer treatment paradigms. Jemperli integrates immunotherapy into endometrial cancer care, while Zejula provides a convenient maintenance option in ovarian cancer, addressing critical unmet needs.”

Also read: Alcon India Unveils UNITY VCS and UNITY CS to Advance Cataract and Vitreoretinal Surgery Efficiency

Strengthening Oncology Portfolio in India

Both Jemperli and Zejula are already approved in over 40 countries, including the US, UK, and EU, supported by robust clinical trial evidence. In India, GSK is also participating in ongoing oncology trials exploring the potential of dostarlimab across multiple cancer types, such as non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck cancers, and colorectal cancer.

With this launch, GSK is positioning itself as a significant player in India’s evolving oncology landscape, where the demand for precision therapies and patient-centric care is rapidly increasing.

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