National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) Backs Novartis AG MS Drug, Overturning Earlier Decision

Novartis's multiple sclerosis pill Gilenya has been recommended for use on the U.K.'s publicly-funded National Health Service after a change of heart by the country's healthcare cost-effectiveness watchdog. Friday's verdict from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, whose opinions are also watched closely in other countries, is welcome news for the Swiss company's potential blockbuster product whose safety profile has come into question recently.