NICE recommends Novartis' Zykadia

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). the medicines cost-effectiveness watchdog for England and Wales, has today published final draft guidance that recommends ceritinib (trade name Zykadia) for treating lung cancer.

Ceritinib, from Swiss pharma giant Novartis (NOVN: VX), is recommended in line with its marketing authorization and only if the company provides it at a discounted price agreed with the Department of Health.

The final draft guidance is now with consultees, who have the opportunity to appeal against the decisions. Until the NICE issues final guidance, National Health Service bodies should make decisions locally on the funding of specific treatments. The final guidance is expected in June.