NICE not recommending Lucentis for treatment of diabetes macular oedema

NICE not recommending Lucentis for treatment of diabetes macular oedema

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence [NICE] issued final draft guidance on the use of Lucentis [Ranibizumab] in England and Wales. It has decid4ed not to recommend its use on the basis that it is ‘not a cost effective use of NHS resources’. Lucentis is a new treatment for diabetic macular oedema, which affects around 50,000 people with diabetes and leads to visual impairment and blindness if not treated.

Diabetic macular oedema is a swelling in the area of the retina that gives detailed vision. Laser treatment has been the standard treatment on the NHS for diabetic macular oedema for the last 25 years and while this does stop deterioration, it has not been shown to improve vision. Over time laser treatment can cause damage to the surrounding area of the retina. Lucentis can improve vision and improve quality of life.

NICE has rejected the use of Lucentis on the grounds of cost. The injections cost £742 per eye and some people will need several monthly injections. Ultimately the cost of looking after people with sight loss is far greater, not to mention the effect on people’s lives.

People already being treated with Lucentis should have the option to continue with their treatment until they or their doctor decide it is appropriate to stop. NICE has not yet issued final guidance and there is the opportunity for registered stakeholders to appeal against the decision. Final guidance is expected in August 2011.