The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK is set to provide a "take-home" oral medication to thousands of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in England to control their condition, thereby reducing their hospital visits for injections or infusions. This move aims to improve the quality of life for patients and alleviate pressure on the healthcare system, offering a more convenient treatment option.
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03-12, 2025The drug advisory body NICE stated that Cladribine is not only suitable for patients with more severe, highly active MS (for whom it was previously used), but can also help patients with active relapsing-remitting MS. Expanding the use of this drug is expected to free more patients from the burden of frequent hospital visits and free up more clinical time, improving access to care.
The NHS will be the first healthcare system in Europe to promote this treatment. NICE is expected to issue final guidance for England in April, after which Wales and Northern Ireland may take similar measures. Scotland is also considering adopting the treatment. There are currently over 150,000 MS patients in the UK, a disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. While there is currently no cure, treatment can slow disease progression and relieve symptoms, offering patients a better quality of life.
Trials have shown that Cladribine can reduce the frequency and severity of relapses. The drug targets specific immune cells involved in MS inflammation and myelin damage. Patients need to receive two courses of treatment, 12 months apart, which means patients need to take about 20 pills at home. The list price of the drug is about £2,000 per pill, but the actual price paid by the NHS is unclear, as it can negotiate discounts with pharmaceutical companies, potentially reducing the financial burden.
Clare Elgar, a 37-year-old patient from Southampton, took Cladribine for relapsing MS. She was diagnosed with the disease in January 2021, after experiencing loss of function in her right arm and numbness in her face. Clare said: "Being able to receive treatment at home means I can maintain my daily routine without having to go to the hospital. I am delighted that the new standard will give others like me the opportunity to benefit from this life-changing drug," offering hope for a better future.
Laura Thomas, Policy Director at the MS Society, said: "This decision is particularly beneficial for those who find it difficult to go to the hospital regularly, such as young working adults." She also added that the treatment is also beneficial for patients considering starting a family, as it is safe to become pregnant six months after completing the last course of treatment, which is less restrictive than many other options. "We are delighted that more MS patients now have the option of an effective treatment that fits their lifestyle," improving their overall well-being.
