The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has recommended two versions of natalizumab for those suffering from relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
In multiple sclerosis (MS), immune system cells called T and B cells - which normally fight viruses and bacteria - mistakenly attack myelin, the protective covering around nerves in the brain and spinal cord.
This leads to damage (lesions) in the body, progressive disability and symptoms including pain, fatigue, mobility problems and cognitive impairment.
There is no cure for multiple sclerosis. However, there are treatments to help recovery from attacks, modify the course of the disease, and manage symptoms.
But in the case of relapsing-remitting MS, the disease continues to relapse or shows signs of activity despite a full course of treatment.
The two versions of natalizumab, Tysabri and Tyruko, offer an additional treatment option for such patients.
Tysabri (the originator, made by Biogen) can be given as an injection, and Tyruko (made by Sandoz) can be given as an infusion.
Tyruko is a biosimilar - a newer version of the drug that works in the same way as the original.
Biosimilars are medicines developed to be equivalent to existing biological treatments, offering the same clinical outcomes at lower costs.
Natalizumab binds the immune cells and keeps them in the bloodstream, preventing them from entering the brain and spinal cord where they would otherwise damage nerves.
It is given every four weeks in the hospital.
“This recommendation means people living with highly active relapsing-remitting MS now have a meaningful additional treatment option,” said Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation.
“This is welcome news for the thousands of people who have breakthrough MS activity on treatment,” said Professor Ruth Dobson, Centre Lead for the Centre for Preventive Neurology at the Wolfson Institute of Population Health, QMUL.
“Natalizumab is a highly effective treatment, and we’re really pleased that people with highly active relapsing MS who haven’t responded to previous DMT(s) will now have the option to take it. Our decision will particularly benefit people who want to start a family as natalizumab can be taken during pregnancy, unlike other highly effective DMTs,” said Ceri Smith, Head of Policy at the MS Society.
