The tablet capivasertib, used alongside fulvestrant, has been approved for patients with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer that has progressed after earlier endocrine treatment.

Trials suggest that capiversatib, combined with fulvestrant, on average gave patients an extra four months before their condition progressed compared to fulvestrant alone.

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said: ‘The patient experts described the devastating impact that being diagnosed with advanced breast cancer has on people's lives.

'They also highlighted the value of having a well-tolerated treatment that delays their cancer getting worse and targets AKT1 or PTEN gene alterations, noting that there are currently none available.'

In response, Professor Peter Johnson, national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, said: ‘This new combination treatment offers an additional option for some people whose breast cancer has progressed despite previous hormone therapy, and who may benefit from a targeted approach.

‘While it won't be suitable for everyone, giving patients more time before more intensive therapies are required is an important part of our drive to personalise cancer care and improve quality of life for patients wherever possible.'