Letermovir for preventing cytomegalovirus disease after a stem cell transplant

1.1 Letermovir is recommended, within its marketing authorisation, as an option for preventing cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation and disease after an allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) in adults who are seropositive for CMV. It is recommended only if the company provides it according to the commercial arrangement.

Why the committee made these recommendations

Current management of CMV after an allogeneic HSCT (a stem cell transplant from a donor) involves regular blood tests to monitor CMV levels (with or without aciclovir). If CMV levels rise, treatment with ganciclovir, valganciclovir or foscarnet (pre-emptive therapy) is started to prevent disease but this can cause severe side effects. Letermovir is an option for reducing CMV and is safer than pre-emptive therapy.

Clinical trial evidence shows that letermovir is effective in reducing CMV infection and also reduces the need for pre-emptive therapy. The most plausible cost-effectiveness estimates for letermovir are within the range that NICE usually considers acceptable. Therefore, it is recommended.