Appeal for ankylosing spondylitis treatment fails

The anti-TNF therapy infliximab will not be made available on the NHS to people with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in England and Wales, an appeal panel has decided.

The National Institute for Health and Clincial Excellence (NICE), the independent body which decides which treatments should be recommended for use in the NHS in England and Wales, began its research into the therapy in 2004. In late 2007, after examining the available evidence, NICE announced that infliximab was not cost-effective compared to other anti-TNF treatments and would not be recommended for treating ankylosing spondylitis. An appeal was launched by the service user group the National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (NASS) and the drug’s manufacturer.

An independent panel met on 31 March 2008 to consider the concerns raised by the appeal, but none were upheld.

Infliximab, which is also known by its brand name Remicade, is one of a series of drugs known as anti-TNF therapies used in the treatment of arthritis. Taken as an infusion, or 2 hour long injection, it reduces inflammation by blocking certain chemicals in the body.

"Arthritis Care is extremely disappointed by the outcome of this appeal,” said Director of Public Affairs, Rachel Haynes. “Anti-TNF therapies have been life-changing for many people with other forms of inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. It is wrong to deny people with ankylosing spondylitis the same opportunity to a good quality of life, putting them at risk of disability and reducing their capacity to participate in society”.

People who are already taking infliximab for AS will not be affected by the new guidance and can continue to receive the treatment until they or their doctor decide to stop.

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