Is rubicatin/rubitidine available in China? How do Chinese patients obtain it?

Lurbinectedin is a new type of anti-cancer drug, mainly used to treat malignant tumors such as small cell lung cancer (SCLC). As an effective targeted drug, rubicatin has been launched in many countries and regions, especially in the European and American markets. In December 2024, Rubicatin was approved by the National Medical Products Administration under the name of Rubitin for injection (ZEPZELCA) in China and went on the market for sale. However, as of March 2025, Due to the short approval time of this drug, domestic patients in need cannot directly obtain the drug through formal channels.

Although rubicatin is not yet available in China, patients still have some access to the drug. First of all, patients can obtain Rubicatin through overseas drug purchase channels. Patients can purchase the drug from Hong Kong, Singapore, the United States and other places. Especially in the Hong Kong market, which is a relatively loose drug regulatory market, Rubicatin can already be purchased in some pharmacies. However, you need to pay attention to the authenticity and quality assurance of the product when purchasing, and try to choose regular channels for purchasing medicines.

In addition, some hospitals may provide access to Rubicatin to eligible patients through clinical trials or special patient use policies. Such situations usually involve a doctor's recommendation and approval, and the patient needs to contact the relevant departments through the hospital to find out whether there is an opportunity to participate in clinical research or obtain specially approved drugs.

Generally speaking, although Rubicatin has not yet been officially launched in mainland China, some patients can still obtain the drug through overseas channels or special applications from hospitals. In the future, as the China Food and Drug Administration advances the approval process for rubicatin, it is expected that the drug may enter the Chinese market.

Reference materials:https://www.zepzelca.com/