Cimzia has become the first RA treatment to receive positive guidance from NICE in more than two years due to an innovative patient access scheme.
Certolizumab pegol, or Cimzia, has been recommended for approval for the treatment of adults with severe active RA, on the condition that the patient access scheme is implemented and the drug is prescribed in accordance with NICE’s specifications.
The drug’s registered UK indication is for use in combination with methotrexate (MTX) for the treatment of moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adult patients when the response to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), including methotrexate, has been inadequate.
In a novel move for drugs in RA, manufacturer UCB has worked with the DH to provide a clear, cost-effective alternative for people with RA through a patient access scheme.
In clinical studies, the new drug has demonstrated significant results as early as the first week of treatment, and the majority of patients have responded within the first 12 weeks. UCB and the DH have agreed a patient access scheme to ensure that treatment decisions are based on patient need rather than cost. UCB will make the new treatment available to all eligible RA patients free of charge for the first 12 weeks.
Ailsa Bosworth, Chief Executive of the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, comments: “This is the first time a new NICE-recommended RA treatment has been made available in over two years – and it could make a big difference to patients’ day-to-day lives.”
“Certolizumab pegol is an important new treatment option for people with rheumatoid arthritis, and it’s exciting that it is now available on the NHS,” commented Professor Peter Taylor, investigator and Professor in Experimental Rheumatology, Imperial College London NHS Trust.
“Certolizumab pegol has been shown to rapidly improve patients’ symptoms and to significantly reduce the rate of progression of joint damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This fast and lasting effect is important as it quickly improves function, reduces work disability and leads to a better quality of life for patients.”