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19/11/2014
HSE To Reconsider Decision On MS Drug
The Health Service Executive's (HSE) drug committee is to meet for a second time to discuss a new drug for multiple sclerosis.
The committee had previously decided not to fund the drug Fampyra, aka Frampridine, over the drugs high price.
The drug, which is used to help MS sufferers walk, had been free until July of this year. It is understood that some 1,500 patients had used the drug during its free period, with a majority reporting "significant improvement" with mobility. However, from the end of July the drug cost patients €500 a month.
The HSE said the drug's manufacturer, Biogen Idec, had failed to formally justify its high price and ruled that it would not approve the reimbursement of the drug under any of its free schemes.
However, the HSE has now said it has had further contact with Biogen Idec and its drug committee will now reconsider its previous decision. A new ruling is expected to be made next month.
(MH/CD)
The committee had previously decided not to fund the drug Fampyra, aka Frampridine, over the drugs high price.
The drug, which is used to help MS sufferers walk, had been free until July of this year. It is understood that some 1,500 patients had used the drug during its free period, with a majority reporting "significant improvement" with mobility. However, from the end of July the drug cost patients €500 a month.
The HSE said the drug's manufacturer, Biogen Idec, had failed to formally justify its high price and ruled that it would not approve the reimbursement of the drug under any of its free schemes.
However, the HSE has now said it has had further contact with Biogen Idec and its drug committee will now reconsider its previous decision. A new ruling is expected to be made next month.
(MH/CD)
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Ireland WeatherToday:Dry, bright start this morning with best of sunshine in the west. Thickening cloud over Down and Antrim this morning with a few showers, extending westwards this afternoon. Lighter winds. Maximum temperature 16 °C.Tonight:Rather cloudy and mainly dry at first, then showery outbreaks of rain extending westwards to most places during the night, turning heavier towards morning. Light winds. Minimum temperature 8 °C.
