Major change to NHS treatment for asthma – are you affected?
THOUSANDS of asthmatics will be given a new injection on the NHS.
Tezepelumab has been approved for over-12s with severe asthma, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence announced.
The injector pen can be used at home or given by medics every four weeks to reduce symptoms.
Sarah Woolnough, of Asthma + Lung UK, said: “On behalf of people with severe asthma, I am delighted that NICE has recommended Tezepelumab for use on the NHS.
“This has the potential to be a lifeline for many people with severe asthma who are currently ineligible from accessing other biologic treatments.”
It works by reducing a type of white blood cell to decrease swelling and irritation and the airways, allowing patients to breathe easier.
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The drug is being offered to anyone whose condition is not well treated by standard inhalers.
Patients who have suffered more than three asthma attacks in a year will also be offered the treatment.
More than 3million people in England have asthma, with more than 100,000 suffering a severe form of the condition.
The condition is caused by swelling of the breathing tubes, which makes them highly sensitive and narrow.
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Attacks can be caused by allergies, smoke, pollution, exercise and infections, like colds or flu.
There is no cure but patients are given treatments to keep symptoms under control.
The new drug will be given to people whose asthma is not kept at bay by standard inhalers and are more prone to attacks.
Tezepelumab, also known as Tespire, has been used in the US since December 2021.
Trials show when added to usual treatment, the drug reduced asthma attacks and the dose of oral corticosteroids patients need, compared with a placebo.
It is estimated that just under 60,000 people in England could be eligible to receive this treatment.