October 23, 2024 – The UK has approved Eli Lilly’s new Alzheimer’s treatment, donanemab, marking a significant milestone in the fight against this debilitating disease. However, the drug has been deemed “too expensive” for widespread use by the National Health Service (NHS), raising concerns about access for patients who could benefit from the treatment.
Donanemab has shown promise in clinical trials, demonstrating the ability to slow cognitive decline in early Alzheimer’s patients. The approval by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reflects the growing urgency to address the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer’s, which affects millions in the UK alone.
Despite the approval, the NHS’s cost-effectiveness watchdog, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), has expressed concerns regarding the drug’s price, which is reported to be around £27,000 per patient per year. The high cost has prompted NICE to question whether it represents good value for the healthcare system, especially in light of budget constraints.
Eli Lilly has indicated its commitment to making donanemab accessible, engaging with healthcare authorities to discuss pricing strategies and potential reimbursement models. The company has highlighted the drug’s potential to improve the quality of life for Alzheimer’s patients and their families.
The debate surrounding the drug’s cost underscores broader challenges in the healthcare system, where innovative treatments often come with significant price tags. Advocacy groups are calling for more equitable access to new therapies, urging the government to find a solution that balances innovation with affordability.
For more information on this developing story, you can read further on The Guardian and BBC News.