February 13th, 2007

According to recent reports the National Institute for Clinical Excellence may not be able to announce its decision on the availability of the mesothelioma drug Alimta in the UK until around September. The Institute had originally stated that the drug would not be available in the UK because of high costs associated with it, but following uproar and controversy had recently stated that it would be reviewing this decision.

Approved several years ago by the Food and Drugs Administration in the United States, Alimta, which is manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly, has proven effective in extending the lifespan of mesothelioma patients by a short time. The drug is administered along with another complementary drug, Cisplatin, and was found to extend life and ease symptoms for several months on average.

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that results from exposure to asbestos fibers and dust over a long period or at high levels. There has been an outcry from campaigners and sufferers of the disease in the UK who wanted Alimta to be available on the National Health Service. However, NICE state that it could be around September before it is in a position to provide details on its decision.

Ian McFall of Thompsons Solicitors said: 'The very nature of mesothelioma means many sufferers cannot afford to wait until September to find out if this drug will be made available to them. I would urge NICE to find some way to bring this meeting forward so a decision can be made without further delay.'