According to recent reports, Eli Lilly’s promising Alzheimer’s treatment, donanemab, may be blocked for use by Britain’s National Health Service (NHS).
The drug, which scientists have hailed as potentially the “best ever” treatment for slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, is expected to be rejected by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
NICE’s Stance on Alzheimer’s Treatments:
NICE, the body responsible for determining which drugs are available on the NHS, is reportedly poised to reject donanemab, citing concerns similar to those raised about another Alzheimer’s drug, lecanemab.
Earlier this week, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) raised issues with lecanemab’s high cost and the intensive monitoring required for side effects, suggesting it may not provide good value for taxpayers.
Despite being the first treatment licensed in the UK that shows evidence of slowing Alzheimer’s progression, lecanemab was not approved for use by the NHS, and NICE is unlikely to reverse this decision.
Donanemab’s Efficacy and Concerns:
Donanemab is reported to be even more effective than lecanemab in slowing down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
However, concerns about potential side effects and the overall cost-effectiveness of the drug may influence the decision by NICE and the MHRA.
The Telegraph reported that the decision on donanemab, initially expected in July 2024, has been delayed as the regulatory agency continues to evaluate the drug.
Implications and Global Context:
Both donanemab and lecanemab have been approved for use in the United States, where they have been seen as significant advancements in Alzheimer’s treatment.
The NHS’s potential rejection of these drugs raises questions about access to cutting-edge treatments in the UK and the balance between cost, safety, and efficacy in public healthcare decisions.