Background
The manufacturer of methylnaltrexone (TMC Pharma Services) was invited to submit evidence for the single technology appraisal of methylnaltrexone for treating opioid-induced bowel dysfunction in people with advanced illness receiving palliative care.
In December 2012, TMC Pharma Services informed NICE that it would not be making an evidence submission for this appraisal. The manufacturer stated that it is holding the European marketing authorisation for methylnaltrexone on a temporary basis while the product owner finds a permanent European partner, but timelines for this are not currently known.
NICE has therefore terminated this single technology appraisal.