Type 2 Diabetes

More clinical data needed to green light new diabetes treatment for NHS use, NICE says

Inconsistent clinical trial data means more evidence is needed to recommend tirzepatide for NHS use, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has announced.

Positioned by the manufacturer as an alternative to treatments like dulaglutide, liraglutide and semaglutide, tirzepatide is taken as a weekly injection to combat type 2 diabetes.

NICE’s independent committee saw that tirzepatide resulted in lower weight and better glucose control at any dose compared to semaglutide or insulin therapy.

                                                                            Video credit: Canva

The level of weight reduction scaled with the level of dose, however the effect on glucose control was not as consistent.

Despite the committee recognising the importance of new options given the difficulties with glucose control in the current crop of treatments, NICE has therefore asked the manufacturer to provide more data to address the uncertainties, as well as further analyses and clarifications on the submitted economic model.

“Type 2 diabetes is becoming more prevalent in society, so new treatment options are needed to help people with it to control their blood-glucose levels,” said NICE’s director of medicines evaluation, Helen Knight.

The accuracy of the forecasted long-term health benefits of tirzepatide compared to its alternatives remains a question, meaning NICE cannot establish whether the treatment is good value for money.

NICE has also requested the company provide more clarity around how its economic model compares to its peers’.

The committee’s decision is now subject to a consultation which can be contributed to until 18 July 2023 via NICE’s website.

The pricing around the pre-filled disposable injection pens will remain confidential until final guidance is published.

Image credit: iStock

NHE September/October 2023

NHE September/October 2023

Empowering the next generation to lead the way in hard-to-treat cancers.

The September/October 2023 edition of NHE brings you expert comment and analysis on a range of key health sector topics, from digital transformation to navigating post-pandemic challenges.

Videos...

View all videos
National Health Executive Presents

National Health Executive Presents

NHE365 Virtual Events

NHE has created a full calendar of events to address the most important issues that influence the delivery of healthcare services. Over 365 days you'll have the opportunity to hear from a range of highly motivating, informative and inspirational speakers. These speakers will equip you with the knowledge and unique insight to enable you to overcome the challenges that you face.

National Health Executive Podcast

Ep. 36
How interoperability can support the NHS's core goals
with Ed Platt

In episode 36 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Omnicell’s UK professional services director, Ed Platt, to discuss interoperability in the NHS, practical examples of where it can be leveraged best, the importance of the health service's digital transformation journey and more.

More articles...

View all