NICE decision on access to Gefitinib(Iressa) and Erlotinib (Tarceva).

[LorraineD]

We are pleased to see NICE's announcement today on second line treatment for non small cell lung cancer using Gefitinib (Iressa) and Erlotinib (Tarceva). Second line treatment is when someone needs further treatment after chemotherapy because their cancer has progressed.

The earlier Appraisal Committee decision would have limited the use of these drugs to patients who had tested EGFR mutation positive or who had features suggestive of being positive. That decision has now been reviewed and today's news will ensure that those patients who were eligible for Erlotinib 2nd line, will continue to have access to it. There will further consultation on today's announcement.

Some weeks ago, there was some discussion on the forum about this issue. We were able to use that information as evidence of the impact on people with lung cancer. Thank you for your interest and we believe this is a good decision.

Lorraine

on behalf of the Information & Support team

[Hidden]

Hi Lorraine.

This is great news for all that needand want this treatment. It's just a pity that NICE put people through the worry.

[Harrypalmer]

I won't be celebrating just yet as having read the article it is my understanding that the u-turn by NICE is a revised draft guidance and the last paragraph states .....

"The new consultation will run until April 29, and NICE is expected to issue its final decision by September". So does that mean that the decision can be reversed?

[LorraineD Partner Roy Castle]

Hi Moni and Rab

We are pleased with this decision, but the process is perhaps more worrying for people than necessary. You are right Moni, the final decision is to be made but the pressure from the clinical and charity communities will hopefully have an impact.

we will continue to monitor this issue and keep you posted,

best wishes

Lorraine

on behalf of the Information & Support Team