You may find this interesting with regards to USA drug for Lupus called Benlysta.

[Lulabelle]

Here is the link to read the article: lupusny.org/about-lupus/lup...

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi Lulabelle,

Please bear in mind that this treatment has yet to be approved for use in the UK. It was rejected by NICE initially.

You can read more about it on our website here -

lupusuk.org.uk/latest-news/...

[Lulabelle]

Hi Paul Yes I am aware via Lupus UK that this treatment has yet to be approved in the UK. However, it seems to be in the UK that every new drug takes at least 5 to 10 yrs before it comes onto the market? It makes me think that this maybe down to cost issues? As we are aware that in the UK with some illnesses people are constantly fund raising and having to send children and ill family members to the USA for pioneering treatments. It seems odd that in the USA people are given the above treatment - yet we hang fire?

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to Lulabelle]

Healthcare is much more of an industry in the USA. People will be able to get the treatments if they are eligible and their insurance covers the cost. In the UK, NICE has to evaluate if the cost of the treatment, compared to alternatives is greater or less than the improvement in people's health.

[Lulabelle]

I see - thanks Paul for clearing this for me. It makes sense now lol!