New injection speeds up cancer treatment

The NHS is rolling out a fast-acting cancer injection that could significantly improve treatment for tens of thousands of patients.

Each year, around 14,000 people in England begin treatment with Pembrolizumab—also known as Keytruda—traditionally delivered through an intravenous drip. Now, most of these patients are expected to switch to a much quicker injectable form, which can treat more than a dozen types of cancer.

Previously, patients had to spend long periods receiving the drug via a drip in hospital. With the new injection, treatment time can be reduced by up to 90%. Depending on the condition, patients will receive the therapy either as a one-minute injection every three weeks or a two-minute dose every six weeks.

Pembrolizumab is an immunotherapy drug that works by helping the body’s immune system detect and destroy cancer cells. It targets a protein called PD-1, which normally limits immune responses, effectively “releasing the brakes” so the immune system can attack the disease. The treatment is used against several cancers, including lung, breast, head and neck, and cervical cancer.

Health officials say the new approach will not only improve patient experience but also free up valuable appointment time across the NHS, allowing more people to be treated and helping reduce waiting lists.

The injectable version, developed by MSD, is ready to use and cuts preparation time for hospital pharmacy teams by about 44%, according to company analysis. Previously, staff had to prepare the drug in sterile intravenous bags, a process that could be time-consuming.

One of the first patients to receive the injection was 89-year-old Shirley Xerxes from Hertfordshire, who was treated at the Mount Vernon Cancer Centre. She described the experience positively, noting that while the injection took a couple of minutes, it was far more convenient than traditional treatment.

Professor Peter Johnson, the NHS national clinical director for cancer, called the therapy a “lifeline” and highlighted how the rapid injection allows patients to spend less time in hospital and more time living their lives.

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting also welcomed the rollout, saying it would provide faster, more convenient care while supporting patients’ recovery with reduced hospital visits.