NICE is now recommending Boehringer Ingelheim’s Pradaxa for stroke prevention after initially rejecting the drug on cost-effectiveness issues. NICE has changed its mind in its final draft guidance, recommending Pradaxa (dabigatran) for use on the NHS in preventing stroke and systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. The change of heart was brought about by new data and analyses, and the pharma company did not have to offer any price discount. The watchdog asked BI for more information on the drug, specifically relating to its differing doses in previous draft guidance, but is now satisfied with the drug’s cost-effectiveness.
