Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) has announced that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended deucravacitinib, a once-daily oral tablet, for use on the NHS in England as an option for treating certain adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
This recommendation from NICE follows receipt of marketing authorisation in Great Britain on 10 May 2023 for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy.
Psoriasis is a common skin condition that affects approximately 2-3% of the UK population and can have a significant impact on people’s physical and mental well-being.
There are numerous comorbidities associated with psoriasis, including psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, depression, and anxiety. The challenges associated with living with a visible disease, as well as the social stigma that can be experienced, can take a significant toll on patients’ emotional and social well-being.
Mike Tobyn, Senior Scientific Director at Moreton, Bristol Myers Squibb said, “The team at Moreton is incredibly proud to have played such a large role, since 2015, in the development of this novel, oral therapy for the treatment of psoriasis. It is fantastic that we have been able to illuminate the science of this medicine via partnerships with world-leading academic institutions in the UK.”
Professor Chris Griffiths, Emeritus Professor, University of Manchester commented: “Today’s announcement marks another step forward for people with psoriasis. This complex condition can affect each person differently, therefore, it is my hope that access to a greater variety of treatments, such as deucravacitinib, will enable eligible patients to have more choice, with therapies that may suit their daily needs and lifestyle.”
The UK has played an important role in the research and development of deucravacitinib. The BMS site in Moreton was involved in the CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls) development of deucravacitinib from 2015, and collaborated with world-leading academic institutions in the UK on the science behind the medicine.
Patients in the UK have also been amongst the first to have benefited from this drug, due to the UK’s active involvement within deucravacitinib’s global clinical trial programme.
Laura Stevenson, Deputy Chief Executive at Psoriasis Association commented: “It is estimated that psoriasis affects over a million people across the UK and for some, it can have a significant life impact. It is therefore hugely important for the community to have access to a variety of treatments, including new therapies such as deucravacitinib.
“The availability of deucravacitinib for adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis may make a real difference for eligible people with psoriasis and add to their potential treatment options. The Psoriasis Association is a national charity, here to provide patients with important new information as well as support with their condition.”
Images: Bristol Myers Squibb at Reeds Lane, Moreton
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