NICE recommends Ozurdex for macular oedema associated with RVO.-Allergan
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence has recommended that Ozurdex (dexamethasone) from Allergan is a cost-effective option for the treatment of macular oedema due to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and also for branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) if the use of laser photocoagulation is not considered appropriate It is thought that 25,000 patients could benefit.
Ozurdex will become the first treatment to be recommended by NICE for macular oedema associated with RVO. The Committee concluded that any decisions on the cost effectiveness of Ozurdex compared with best supportive care should be based on the revised estimate from Allergan of £26,300 per QALY gained, which is considered an acceptable level.
Comment:The biodegradeable implant, Ozurdex, is injected into the eye every six months. It slowly releases a drug, dexamethasone, which suppresses the inflammation and restores vision
Learning Zones
The Learning Zones are an educational resource for healthcare professionals that provide medical information on the epidemiology, pathophysiology and burden of disease, as well as diagnostic techniques and treatment regimens.