NHS could save millions following ruling against drug companies

A landmark ruling against two drug companies has meant that the NHS could save hundreds of millions a year.

Novartis and Bayer have been trying to stop doctors in 12 NHS bodies in North East England from prescribing Avastin for eye treatment as it is not licensed for ocular use in the UK.

The NHS has been offering patients Lucentis and Eyea, which are licensed for eye treatment in the UK but cost hundreds of pounds more than Avastin.

David Hambleton, chief executive officer of NHS South Tyneside CCG, welcomed the judgment and said: ‘We've always said we think that it's important that patients should have the choice of a very effective treatment for wet AMD, and it's [Avastin] actually a fraction of the cost of the other alternatives. So, I think what we do now is offer patients that choice. We believe that they will support very strongly having a cost-effective, safe treatment and saving the NHS generally a lot of money. It is a victory for common sense over commercial interests.’