NICE approves the use of Voxelotor for sickle cell disease patients in England, following a strategic price reduction by Pfizer, promising enhanced patient care and addressing health disparities.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has approved a new treatment for sickle cell disease, Voxelotor, for use within the NHS in England. This decision followed a price reduction by Pfizer, the drug’s manufacturer, making it economically viable for the NHS. The drug is recommended for individuals aged 12 and over, and it is set to benefit approximately 4,000 of the 17,000 people living with the condition in England.
Voxelotor works by helping red blood cells retain more oxygen, thus improving their shape and functionality. This innovation is expected to reduce the frequency of blood transfusions and hospital visits required by patients. The approval is significant in addressing health disparities, as sickle cell disease predominantly affects individuals with African and Caribbean heritage.
John James, Chief Executive of the Sickle Cell Society, Susan Rienow, President of Pfizer UK, and NHS England’s Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard have all welcomed the approval. They highlighted the treatment’s potential to vastly improve quality of life and reduce health inequalities. The drug will be available immediately to eligible patients across England.
