The NCPE, the body that assesses and recommends drugs for use by the health services in Ireland, has recently released initial advice following their assessment of ropeginterferon alfa-2b (Besremi) for the treatment of patients with Polycythaemia Vera. As part of that assessment process MPN Voice made a patient group submission highlighting the benefits of Besremi as an additional treatment option for PV patients.
At this time the NCPE has recommended that ropeginterferon alfa-2b not be considered for reimbursement unless cost-effectiveness can be improved relative to existing treatments. A further review will now be undertaken by the HSE Corporate Pharmaceuticals Unit (CPU) and the HSE Drugs Group, with their final decision to be issued in due course.
We will share further news once the HSE Drugs Group have completed their review and are still hopeful that a way may be found to make Besremi available for the treatment of PV patients in Ireland.
Further details of the NCPE’s advice can be found here.
