The first drug approved by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) is made by the company Gilead. The drug is called Zydelig (generic name idelalisib), intended for adults with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. NICE recommends the drug is given alongside a monoclonal antibody called rituximab. This is for adults with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia who have a specific genetic change and have not received any other treatment. Alternatively, Zydelig can be given to any adults with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia whose cancer has returned less than 24 months after previous treatment.
Although the drug was clinically proven, NICE, according to PharmaFile, requested that further information describing the cost-effectiveness of the drug be provided. An agreement for a suitable discount was agreed between the U.K. government body and the pharmaceutical company.
This is important because chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is the most frequently occurring form of leukaemia in the U.K. The condition more often affects the elderly. Zydelig aims to tackle this in a new way. Essentially the drug blocks the signals which help cancerous cells multiply and survive and offers a chemotherapy-free option. Idelalisib blocks a protein called PI3K and is called a PI3K inhibitor. In doing so the drug helps people to live longer and gives them a better quality of life.
Commenting on the new arrangement, Professor Carole Longson, NICE health technology evaluation centre director, stated: “We are delighted that Gilead Sciences responded to our consultation by providing further information for our independent appraisal committee as well as agreeing to provide idelalisib to the NHS at a reduced price.”
Idelalisib is currently approved in the U.S. for three types of blood cancer.
