Around 180,000 diabetes patients are set to benefit from a new treatment option thanks to a National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommendation.
In final draft guidance published today, NICE proposes those with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes should get treated with tirzepatide, a patient-administered weekly injection. Tirzepatide is manufactured by Eli Lilly and is otherwise known as Mounjaro.
Clinical trial data presented to a NICE committee showed the treatment was much better at reducing blood sugar levels and body weight compared to its alternatives – this includes semaglutide, insulin therapy and a placebo.
Between 81% and 97% of people undergoing treatment with tirzepatide achieved better glucose control, while 54% to 88% reached a 5% or more weight reduction.
Over five million people live with diabetes in the UK, according to Diabetes UK. Approximately 90% of those case are type 2 diabetes.
Nearly two in three of these people do not have their type 2 diabetes under control, which can lead to blindness, kidney disease, heart attack or stroke.
Following further cost and clinical analysis, NICE recommended the treatment in conjunction with diet and exercise.
“Poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, with its associated additional health risks, is a huge challenge for those living with the condition and the NHS,” said NICE’s director of medicines evaluation, Helen Knight.
“This recommendation will offer fresh hope for many and provide value for money for the taxpayer.”
Once final guidance is released, which is expected to be 11 October 2023, the product will be available to the NHS within 90 days.
To access the full draft guidance, click here.
Image credit: iStock
