Review of TA32; Multiple sclerosis - interferon beta and glatiramer acetate, TA127; Natalizumab for the treatment of adults with highly active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, and TA254; Fingolimod for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Proposal to update the existing guidance

The planned review date for TA127 had been set to coincide with the presentation of results from the SURPASS trial, which has now been terminated. The consideration of a review of TA32 has previously been deferred and rescheduled to coincide with the review of TA127. The final guidance for TA254 states that the appraisal should be considered for review alongside TA32 and TA127.

The review date is the date at which the Institute decides whether sufficient new evidence has emerged for the Appraisal Committee to be asked to undertake an update of the existing guidance.

Interferon beta and glatiramer acetate are currently provided in the NHS through the multiple sclerosis risk-sharing scheme. This involves detailed monitoring of a cohort of patients to confirm the cost-effectiveness of these treatments. Preliminary results from the risk-sharing scheme have now been published and further data is likely to be made available within the timeframe of a multiple technology appraisal. This data will enable an estimation of the cost-effectiveness of these drugs over several years.

With this in mind, it is therefore proposed that a combined review of TA32, TA127 and TA254 should be planned into the NICE work programme.

In order to be completely confident that this is appropriate, we are asking consultees and commentators with an interest in this topic, to inform us of any evidence which would suggest that an earlier review would be beneficial. We would particularly like to be made aware of timelines around on-going research, etc. which might affect the scheduling of this review should we go ahead with the proposal following this consultation. 

Please see appendix A for a full list of the organisations we have contacted. 

April 2013