Review of NICE Technology Appraisal Guidance No 64, on the use of human growth hormone (somatropin) for the treatment of growth hormone deficiency in adults

Proposal to defer the review

Having considered the guidance and a possible scope for a review, the Institute has found no relevant additions to the evidence base that would have a material effect on the guidance. However, we are aware of details of an on-going study, to determine the effects of growth hormone replacement therapy on the quality of life and cardiovascular risk in growth hormone deficient adults, which is due for completion in March 2009. Consequently the institute is proposing that the decision to review the original guidance be deferred until early 2009, when the evidence base will be re-accessed to ascertain the need for a review of the guidance.

In order to be completely confident that this is appropriate, we are asking all original consultees and commentators, to inform us of any evidence which would suggest that an earlier review would be beneficial. Please see the list below of the organisations we have contacted.

Please note all comments received will be published on the Institute’s website when a decision has been taken. 

24 July 2006

• Biopartners
• Cambridge Laboratories
• Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolic Medicine
• Department of Health
• Eli Lilly and Company Ltd
• Ferring Pharmaceuticals Ltd
• Ipsen Limited
• Novartis Pharmaceuticals Ltd
• Novo Nordisk Ltd
• Pfizer Ltd
• Pituitary Foundation
• Restricted Growth Association
• Royal College of General Practitioners
• Royal Col lege of Nursing
• Royal College of Physicians
• Royal College of Surgeons of England
• Royal Pharmaceutical Society
• Serono Pharmaceuticals Ltd
• Society for Endocrinology
• Turner Syndrome Support Society
• Welsh Assembly Government