FAQs

Optune Lua is a wearable, portable device that delivers Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy to disrupt cancer cell division. TTFields are low-intensity, intermediate frequency (150 kHz) alternating fields delivered via transducer arrays applied to the upper body. Optune Lua is intended as a treatment concurrent with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors or docetaxel for adult patients with metastatic non—small cell lung cancer who have progressed on or after a platinum-based regimen.¹

Optune Lua can be prescribed by healthcare professionals with prescribing privileges after completing an FDA-mandated certification training course given by the device manufacturer (Novocure^®). This training ensures prescribers are properly trained to prescribe and manage Optune Lua treatment, following FDA regulations and guidelines.¹

Contact us to learn more about how to become certified to prescribe Optune Lua here.

Healthy cells have different properties (including division rate, morphology, and electrical properties), than cancer cells, and therefore are not significantly affected by Optune Lua treatment. These findings are based on preclinical data.^1-3
 

Patients should use Optune Lua as many hours per day as possible. Optune Lua should be used for at least 12 hours per day on average. Patients can take short breaks for personal needs, and have the flexibility to choose which parts of the day to use Optune Lua, including at night when they are sleeping. Remind patients not to discontinue treatment with Optune Lua unless you have instructed them to do so.¹

In clinical trials, adverse events (AEs) associated with Optune Lua device use were observed. The only device-related AEs (occurring in >5% of patients) were skin-related and mild to moderate. It is important for HCPs, patients, and caregivers to continually monitor a patient’s clinical status while using Optune Lua. Patients are encouraged to keep a photo diary of any AEs potentially associated with device use to share with their HCP.^1,4,5

Learn more about the most commonly reported AEs and the incidence rate of SAEs here.

Discover how to mitigate, monitor, and manage common dermatologic AEs here.

The size and location of arrays should be compatible with the size and anatomy of the individual patient. The superior margin of the anterior arrays should be positioned as close as possible to the clavicles, while the superior margin of the posterior arrays should be positioned as close as possible to the spine of the scapula. Avoid ceramic disc placement over wounds, scars, surgical screws, or ports, and avoid placing edge of array in skin folds, creases, and scar tissue.^6,7

Two array sizes are available: small (13 discs) and large (20 discs). The array size should be primarily determined by taking a measurement of the midclavicular-nipple distance, with consideration for anatomical factors such as breast presence in females. Physicians may adjust the array layout based on patient-specific considerations like anatomical properties, comorbidities (such as skin abnormalities), and patient preferences.⁶

MyNovocure will work with your patient’s insurance company throughout their treatment with Optune Lua. Please have your patient contact the Financial Coordinator team regarding specific insurance questions.

Novocure will ensure that both you and your patient know in advance what, if any, financial obligation your patient has prior to the patient starting therapy.

With your permission, travel may be possible.

To help prevent unnecessary stress and treatment disruption, MyNovocure support is available before, during, and after traveling. MyNovocure can help ensure that your patients will have the supplies and any travel documentation related to Optune Lua that they may need. Encourage patients to contact MyNovocure for travel support before flying with Optune Lua.⁵

On days that the arrays ARE NOT being changed, it is recommended that patients bathe using a sponge bath.⁵

Remind patients to avoid getting the arrays wet. Patients should unplug the arrays from the device prior to bathing. Direct patients to cover the unplugged arrays and wires that are still attached by placing a towel around their upper body to prevent them from getting wet. The device should be left outside of the bathroom while patients are taking a sponge bath.⁵

On days that arrays ARE being changed, patients can remove arrays in a warm shower, using gentle, hypoallergenic soap, then continue to shower normally. Be sure patients unplug the cords attaching the arrays to the connector box before stepping into the shower.⁵

Here are some additional tips on array-change days⁵:

• Replace the arrays at least twice per week (every 4 days at most)
• Gently remove the arrays without rubbing the skin forcefully (it should take about a minute per array)
• For array removal outside of the shower, medical adhesive remover, water-based makeup remover, or baby oil may be used to loosen the edges of the arrays and remove residue

Patients should check for signs of skin damage or excess irritation regularly when changing arrays.⁵

For more on proper array placement and removal, click here.

For female patients, when selecting a bra, make sure that the bra underwires do not interfere with the discs.⁷