Review of NICE Technology Appraisal Guidance No.158; Oseltamivir, amantadine and zanamivir for the prophylaxis of influenza, and No.168; Amantadine, oseltamivir and zanamivir for the treatment of influenza

In May 2014, following the publication of the Cochrane collaboration reviews for oseltamivir and zanamivir in the prophylaxis and treatment of influenza; the Institute re-issued a consultation on our plans to move TA168 to the static guidance list, and for TA158 to remain on the static guidance list. During the consultation, a number of responses were received and the majority of these comments agreed with the proposal.

After consideration of all of the comments (attached as appendix A), the Institute’s Guidance Executive has decided to proceed with the proposal. NICE appreciates the issues raised relating to the safety of the technologies, but this is considered to be a matter for the regulators to decide if the potential benefits of these medicines outweigh the risks, and as such, as update of either piece of guidance is not required at this time.

Consequently, TA168 will move to the static guidance list, and TA158 will remain on the static guidance list. Topics on the static list can be considered for review if any new evidence becomes available that is likely to lead to a change in the existing recommendations.

November 2014