The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has issued its final draft guidance recommending benralizumab as a treatment option for people with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). This marks a significant milestone for patients living with this rare form of vasculitis.
Key Decision
In its recommendation 3.19, NICE confirmed that, using the committee’s preferred assumptions, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for benralizumab fell within the range considered a cost-effective use of NHS resources. This means benralizumab will soon be available on the NHS for eligible EGPA patients.
The official publication of the guidance is expected in the coming weeks. Once published, the eligibility criteria will be clearly outlined as part of the recommendation.
A Win for the Patient Voice
This decision is also a testament to the impact of patient advocacy. Lev Ariel, a patient with lived experience of EGPA, played a vital role in the appraisal process. By speaking candidly about their journey and challenges during the NICE committee meeting, Lev helped shape the understanding of the real-world impact of EGPA and the urgent need for effective treatments.
“Lev, your strength and brutal honesty at the committee meeting made a huge difference in this positive outcome,” said those involved in the process.
Next Steps
Once the final guidance is published, NHS patients who meet the criteria will be able to access benralizumab as part of their treatment for EGPA.
For more details, visit the official NICE documentation: NICE Guidance on Benralizumab for EGPA.