Drugs for blood clots and diabetes backed by NICE

The National Industry for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK yesterday gave final recommendations for Bayer's Xarelto and BMS-AZ's Forxiga for use in England and Wales.

Bayer's Xarelto (rivaroxaban) was deemed to be an efficient use of resources in the treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE), and to prevent recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and PE in adults who have undergone an acute incident of PE.

This recommendation will offer patients a simpler alternative to warfarin and will be used for patients who are unable to use warfarin.

"Because warfarin interacts with many other drugs, it may be unsuitable for people being treated for other conditions. In addition, the committee heard that warfarin has various food interactions which often require people to adjust and monitor their diet and lifestyle."

Professor Carole Longson, NICE Health Technology Evaluation Centre Director,

Meanwhile, Forxiga (dapagliflozin) was given the green light to be used for some patients with type 2 diabetes to control blood sugar levels, however, it was recommended for use in a limited group of patients and on the condition that its price is reduced.

"NICE is pleased to recommend dapagliflozin in combination therapy for some people with type 2 diabetes, which will provide another treatment option for this condition."

Professor Carole Longson, director for the Health Technology Evaluation Centre at NICE