NICE pauses final decision on ocrelizumab for primary progressive MS

NICE has announced that it is pausing the publication of final guidance for ocrelizumab for primary progressive multiple sclerosis.  

The final decision was due to be published on the NICE website on 31 October and would have rejected ocrelizumab as an NHS treatment for primary progressive MS on the grounds of cost effectiveness.

The MS Trust now understands that this final decision has been postponed while further discussions take place between the drug company and NHS England. We welcome this move as it demonstrates a willingness on both sides to engage further in the debate around this drug which could have substantial impact on the lives of people with primary progressive MS. 

No timeframes have yet been published, and the outcome is obviously unknown, but we will continue to campaign for equitable access to effective care options for everyone living with MS. Similarly we will continue to update you as and when further information becomes available following the NICE announcement. 

Access to ocrelizumab for people living with PPMS would be a very welcome outcome to this further review, but we recognise that there are many factors which can influence the final decision. It is not yet clear how long, or what process will need to be followed, but it appears that access to a treatment which can slow down the progression of MS may have moved a step closer.

- David Martin, Chief Executive, MS Trust