Nice 'disappointed' by Eisai's action over Alzheimer guidance
Drug developer applies for judicial review of the process by which Nice guidance was developed
The UK's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) has said it is disappointed about the action of Eisai Ltd. The drug developer, along with its co-promotion partner Pfizer Ltd, has applied for a judicial review of the process by which Nice developed guidance on the use of drugs for treating Alzheimer's disease.
On 22 November 2006, Nice issued guidance recommending the use of donepezil, galantamine and rivastigmine as options for moderate Alzheimer's disease only. It and the Social Care Institute for Excellence also issued a joint guideline on the treatment and care of people with all types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.
Eisai claims that the decision making process was not transparent and has taken judicial action.
Andrew Dillon, chief executive of Nice, said: "We are disappointed that Eisai Ltd have taken this step. We consider their claim without foundation and it will require us to divert energy and funding from the work we do to support patients and health professionals and get the most out of the resources available to the NHS."
Dillon added: "Our consultation, decision-making and appeals processes are transparent and fair. We share our methodology and enable our stakeholders to see the basis on which our experts arrive at their decisions. We invite patients, medical professionals and anyone who has an interest to express their views and comment on our proposals.
He said: "The reality is that, for Alzheimer's disease, drugs are only part of the care that needs to be offered. Non-drug interventions have an important part to play and the evidence indicates that drugs are simply not effective for some patients. That is why, in November 2006, we issued, with the Social Care Institute for Excellence, joint guidance on the treatment and care of people with all forms of dementia and the support that should be provided for carers."
The High Court has yet to confirm when it will be able to give consideration to the application or, if granted, when the review will be heard.