The UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved lurbinectedin for adults with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer.

The regulatory decision, announced on 23 September 2026, adds a new treatment option for adults with this aggressive form of lung cancer. The MHRA said the medicine will remain under close review for its safety and effectiveness.

Lurbinectedin is a targeted cancer medicine that works by interfering with cancer-cell activity. Its approval follows regulatory assessment of the available evidence on the medicine.

The development comes as UK regulators continue to evaluate new treatments and technologies designed to expand options for patients with serious diseases.

The MHRA is responsible for regulating medicines and medical devices in the UK, including assessing their safety, quality and effectiveness before and after approval.

The approval highlights the continuing role of UK medicines regulation and life-sciences innovation in bringing new therapies into clinical use.