NICE reverses rejection of Celgene's Revlimid
This article was originally published in Scrip
NICE, the health technology appraisal institute for England and Wales, has made a U-turn on its decision regarding Celgene's Revlimid (lenalidomide) in myelodysplastic syndromes, recommending the drug in final draft guidance.
NICE's change of heart was mostly due to Celgene's proposed patient access scheme, which made the drug affordable for the NHS. The NHS will provide Revlimid for up to 26 cycles, and if a patient needs further treatment Celgene will provide the drug for free.
Previously, NICE had consistently dismissed Revlimid in this indication. In two sets of draft guidance, NICE had questioned Revlimid's ability to extend lives, and said Celgene had not provided enough evidence to justify the price (scripintelligence.com, 25 October 2013).
Sir Andrew Dillon, NICE's chief executive, praised Celgene for making the recommendation possible. "Celgene worked with us to provide enough evidence to make it possible for us to recommend it for this group of people. Celgene provided a revised analysis and further information on their proposal for a reduction in the cost of the drug to the NHS."
The recommendation is focused specifically on a type of myelodysplasic syndrome that is characterized by a chromosomal abnormality called an isolated deletion 5q cytogenetic abnormality. Currently the only available treatment is best supportive care.
The final draft guidance is now open to consultation, with binding final guidance due later this year.