Features - Asthma UK Disappointed At NICE Decision Not To Recommend Omalizumab (Xolair) For Children Aged 6-11

Dr Mike Thomas, Chief Medical Adviser to Asthma UK, said: ‘We are very disappointed to hear that the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) does not intend to approve the pioneering asthma treatment Omalizumab (Xolair) for use in children aged 6-11.

‘The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) has already approved this life-changing drug for use in children aged 6-11 in Scotland, so yet again, patients could be faced with a treatment postcode lottery depending on where they live in the UK.

‘Every child deserves the best possible start in life, yet those with conditions like severe asthma are held back by crippling daily symptoms, endless trips to hospital and huge amounts of time off school, which severely hinders their life chances and ability to form relationships.

‘Xolair could provide a lifeline for some of these children, giving them an opportunity to experience a normal childhood and take part in activities that have been difficult or even impossible, like playing sports with their friends or managing a full night’s sleep without suffering an asthma attack.

‘We therefore urge NICE to re-consider this decision as a matter of priority.’

Sophie Manson, 20, from Nottingham, has been receiving omalizumab for the last four years. She says:

‘Xolair is a miracle. After beginning my treatment, I lost 5 stone in a few months, reduced my steroid intake from 40mg to 10mg per day and stopped having to use a wheelchair. My life is almost like that of any other person now and I don’t have hospital admissions any more. I never thought my life could change so dramatically.’

Press Release Supplied By health4media.com