NICE rejects multiple sclerosis drug Zeposia
pharmafile | January 22, 2021 | News story | Medical Communications | NICE
NICE has decided not to recommend Bristol Myers Squibb’s Zeposia (ozanimod) for the treatment of relapsing/remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
In an appraisal consultation document, NICE said that while evidence shows ozanimod reduces the number of relapses and brain lesions compared with interferon beta-1a, the drug’s effect on the progression of disability is unclear. The public body explained that the effectiveness of ozanimod compared with other treatments cannot be established as there is no evidence directly comparing them.
NICE added: “The cost-effectiveness estimates are uncertain because of limitations in the clinical effectiveness evidence and are above what NICE normally considers an acceptable use of NHS resources.”
Zeposia received both EMA and FDA approval for the treatment of RRMS last year.
Sarah Rawlings, Director of Research and External Affairs at the MS Society, said: “It’s frustrating NICE has made a decision not to recommend Zeposia as a treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). While there are a range of treatments for this form of the condition, oral options are limited, and people could benefit enormously from a new, more convenient alternative.
“NICE’s decision isn’t final, and we are urging them and the manufacturer to review the evidence and consider what’s best for those living with MS.
“Zeposia would be the only oral first-line treatment for some people with relapsing MS, and we are hopeful both sides will act on the significance of this,” she added.
Darcy Jimenez
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