UK's NICE issues negative new draft guidance on Sanofi's Zaltrap

The UK’s drug watchdog the National Institute for Health Care and Excellence (NICE) has issued new draft guidance that does not recommend National Health Service use of French drug major Sanofi’s (Euronext: SAN) Zaltrap (aflibercept) for treating metastatic colorectal cancer that is resistant to or has progressed after an oxaliplatin containing regimen. The drug was approved by European regulators earlier this year (The Pharma Letter February 6) and in the USA last year (TPL August 6, 2012).

Commenting on the draft guidance, Sir Andrew Dillon, chief executive of the NICE, said: “We have already recommended six treatments for various stages of colorectal cancer and are disappointed not to be able to add aflibercept to the list of treatments for this stage of the disease. However, we have to be confident that the benefits that drugs offer patients really do justify what the NHS will have to pay for them. Although the independent committee considered aflibercept to be a clinically effective treatment, it could not be considered a cost-effective use of NHS.”

Consultees, including the manufacturer, health care professionals and members of the public are now able to comment on the preliminary recommendations which are available for public consultation. Comments received during this consultation will be fully considered by the Committee and following this meeting the next draft guidance will be issued.