NHS to use Humira for uveitis

NHS in England is to use Humira (adalimumab) in adults with severe refractory uveitis following the publication of an interim clinical commissioning policy statement.

Around 200 adults are suitable for use with the drug which will be sourced from Abbvie, a research-based biopharmaceutical company.

Current treatments use steroids with or instead of immunosuppressants. Steroid treatment can have side effects so Humira offers an option for clinicians, said a statement from Abbvie.

The Interim Clinical Commissioning Policy recommends adalimumab for adults with severe refractory uveitis, those who have active disease and are at risk of permanent loss of vision, which cannot be managed by steroids or immunosuppressants.