NICE recommends Jetrea
NICE today has issued final draft guidance that recommends ocriplasmin (Jetrea, manufactured by ThromboGenics) as a treatment option for some adults with vitreomacular traction.
Ocriplasmin has been recommended in adults, if an epiretinal membrane is not present, and they have a stage II macular hole (full thickness with a diameter of 400 micrometres or less) and / or they have severe symptoms.
Vitreomacular traction, a rare condition, occurs when the vitreous pulls abnormally on the retina, resulting in distorted vision, and can cause a hole in the macular area.
"Vitreomacular traction can cause significant sight problems and even loss of vision in the long run. Ocriplasmin injection represents an innovation in treating patients with vitreomacular traction and, as it provides an alternative to 'watch and wait' and / or surgery, would be welcomed by clinicians and patients. NICE is, therefore, pleased to recommend ocriplasmin for this condition in final draft guidance."
Professor Carole Longson, Health Technology Evaluation Centre Director, NICE
Reference link:
NICE gives green light to eye condition treatment in final draft guidance (NICE press release)
Related news:
NICE says 'yes' to Novartis' Jetrea (Pharma Times)
