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Caya, Tykerb is not available in Canada. My onc. tried to get me in a clinical trial but I didn't meet all the criteria. I have been in contact with Glaxo Smith Kline and they said it is now up to Health Canada to approve it.(In the past I have written to former Health Minister,Tony Clement and Health Canada with no glimmer of hope) That said, I could get it in the U.S. with a price tag of $3600. a month, and I wasn't able to afford that price tag. I'm on Xeloda $800.00 and it is covered by my private insurance, Blue Cross. Last month they had me fill out a 'special authorization' form. I believe, rightly or wrongly they were trying to download the drug on our Provincial Trillium plan. In the end, they ok'd the drug for another 6months. There went my secure thinking that I had all basis covered. My tumour numbers are on the incline again so I may not need Xeloda after another 6 months.
Brenda, we all agree that our health care systems are strained. You said it well in a previous post.
I'm glad I live in Canada and alive 15 years after a Stage II dx and 8 years after Stage IV dx. For this I give thanks to my health care system and of course the countries developing new drugs and the courageous people in the trials.
We are all in this together and outcomes all the same at some point.
Hugs to all,
Diana.
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