NICE Rejects GlaxoSmithKline’s Lupus Injection

The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended that the National Health Service (NHS) not offer GlaxoSmithKline’s Benlysta (belimumab) as a supplemental therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus in individuals age five years and older.

Benlysta, which was previously offered by NHS, has been shown to reduce flare-ups and overall disease activity vs. standard therapy, NICE said, but added that the drug’s long-term effectiveness is uncertain.

Additionally, Benlysta’s cost is higher than what NICE considers acceptable. The UK list price for an intravenous infusion is approximately $172 for a 120-mg vial and approximately $574 for a 400-mg vial.

The institute invited comments on the draft recommendation by June 25.