Lucentis not recommended by NICE for treating DME in England and Wales
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has not recommended Lucentis for the treatment of diabetic macular oedema (DME) for the English and Welsh NHS.
Lucentis not recommended by NICE for treating DME in England and Wales
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has not recommended Lucentis for the treatment of diabetic macular oedema (DME for the English and Welsh NHS.
Novartis submitted present clinical data and information on NHS ophthalmologists on the realistic uses of Lucentis (ranibizumab).
NICE has recognized the benefits of Lucentis in that it prevents the production of endothelial growth factor (VEGF). But it has concluded that the cost effectiveness model does not reflect expected clinical practice.
Sir Andrew Dillon, Chief Executive at NICE said: "NICE already recommends ranibizumab for wet age-related macular degeneration, and although it has been shown in clinical trials to be an effective treatment for DME, the Appraisal Committee was unable to recommend the drug as a cost-effective use of NHS resources compared to laser photocoagulation for this condition."
Laser treatment is currently the top treatment for DME patients but there are, at present, no other licensed medical treatment options.
