Posted by Michael Wonder on 09 Oct 2017
SMC - October 2017 decisions
9 October 2017 - SMC accepts medicines for hepatitis C and multiple myeloma for use by NHSScotland.
The SMC, which advises on newly licensed medicines for use by NHS Scotland, has today published advice accepting two new medicines.
Daratumumab (Darzalex) was accepted for the treatment of multiple myeloma, a rare cancer of the white blood cells that may result in complications including severe bone pain, kidney damage and a depleted immune system with a consequent risk of serious infection. Following consideration through SMC’s Patient and Clinician Engagement (PACE) process for medicines used to treat end of life and very rare conditions, daratumumab was accepted for the treatment of patients who have received at least three prior treatment regimens. Through PACE, patient groups and clinicians highlighted that patients become resistant to treatments over time and that there are limited treatment options available at this stage. While there is currently no cure for multiple myeloma, daratumuab may provide an opportunity to improve control of the condition and disease associated symptoms.
Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (Epclusa) was accepted for the treatment of specific sub-types of hepatitis C, a blood-borne virus that predominantly infects the cells of the liver, resulting in inflammation and significant damage. This affects the liver's ability to perform its essential functions, which include fighting infection and removing toxins from the body. Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir provides an opportunity to eradicate the Hepatitis C virus. Through a submission to SMC, patient groups highlighted that this medicine could enable patients to be treated with minimum disruption to their working and family lives.
