Drug news
NICE recommends Epclusa (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir) as a treatment option for six genotypes of HCV.- Gilead Sciences
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)has recommended Epclusa (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir) from Gilead Sciences as a treatment option for all six genotypes of HCV, with the condition that it is not recommended for treatment-naïve, non-cirrhotic genotype 2 patients who are able tolerate interferon-based therapy. In that one specific setting, interferon-inclusive regimens are viewed more cost-effective than Epclusa.
NICE recognized a need for HCV therapy with fewer adverse side effects and for patients with genotype 3 of the virus, who comprise about 44% of the patient base. Gilead and NICE have agreed to a confidential discount to the NHS for Epclusa.