ICER says Novartis should lower price of MS drug Mayzent

The US cost-effectiveness group Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) yesterday released a Final Evidence Report  assessing the comparative clinical effectiveness and value of Swiss pharma giant Novartis’ (NOVN: VX) Mayzent (siponimod) for the treatment of secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS).

Siponimod was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in March this year for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including active SPMS. However, the ICER conclusion is that, while the drug may be effective, its price is too high and out of line with benefit.

The ICER’s report was reviewed at the May 2019 public meeting of the Midwest Comparative Effectiveness Public Advisory Council), one of ICER’s three independent evidence appraisal committees. Panel members unanimously found that the evidence was insufficient to demonstrate that siponimod is superior to best supportive care for patients with non-active SPMS.