NICE recommends new triple therapy for multiple myeloma patients
pharmafile | March 19, 2021 | News story | Medical Communications | NHS England, NICE, oncology
A new second line triple therapy is to be offered to NHS patients in England with multiple myeloma, following a NICE recommendation announced today.
The triple therapy, using carfilzomib with dexamethasone and lenalidomide, could be offered to around 2,000 patients with multiple myeloma who have had at least one previous therapy, including bortezomib.
Evidence from clinical trials shows the triple therapy produces longer periods of remission and life span, compared with the current second line treatment, lenalidomide and dexamethasone.
These benefits have been proven to last up to six years, according to evidence seen by NICE’s independent appraisal committee.
Meindert Boysen, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of the Centre for Health Technology Assessment at NICE, said: “The recommendation of our committee will be welcomed by people with multiple myeloma who have told us of the need of a new second line treatment option that gives longer periods of remission and improves survival.
“The clinical data shows that the benefits of this triple therapy continue after treatment has stopped. A positive decision has been made possible after the company and NHS England came to a commercial arrangement which allows carfilzomib to be used on the NHS with a confidential discount.”
Carfilzomib’s manufacturers, Amgen, have agreed a confidential commercial agreement with the NHS to allow its use at a discounted price. NHS patients will be offered a maximum of 18 cycles of treatment in accordance with the guidance.
Professor Peter Johnson, NHS England Clinical Director for Cancer, said: “Even as we continue to care for COVID-19 patients, it is vital that we continue to innovate and offer cancer patients the best available treatments, which is why the NHS has worked hard to reach this agreement for carfilzomib which can extend the lives of those with multiple myeloma.
“It provides doctors another option to treat this disease and gives patients hope when alternative treatments haven’t worked, ensuring the NHS can continue to give first-class care to patients.”
Kat Jenkins
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