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A new treatment option for people with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes has been recommended by NICE.
Tirzepatide is a once-weekly subcutaneous injectable peptide and is licensed to treat adults with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled with three or more antidiabetic drugs.
Once final guidance is published in October, the product will be made available in the NHS within 90 days dependent on the supply of licensed product by the manufacturer.
Tirzepatide will be an alternative option to similar treatments such as dulaglutide, liraglutide and semaglutide (ozempic/rybelsus) which are already recommended for use in the NHS.
Treatment option for poorly controlled type 2 diabetes
Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said: “There are very few new medicines being developed to treat difficult to manage type 2 diabetes. Our committee recognised the potential tirzepatide has to provide an effective and good value treatment option for all those living with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.
“Poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, with its associated additional health risks, is a huge challenge for those living with the condition and the NHS. This recommendation will offer fresh hope for many and provide value for money for the taxpayer.”
According to research by Diabetes UK, more than five million people in the UK are living with diabetes. The charity estimates around 90% of people with diabetes have type 2.
Evidence from clinical trials showed using tirzepatide resulted in significant reductions in blood sugar levels and body weight compared with semaglutide, insulin therapy or a placebo. The evidence showed using tirzepatide resulted in 81% to 97% of people reaching better glucose control and 54% to 88% reaching a 5% or greater reduction in body weight, which were significantly more than any of the comparators.
The committee was able to make the positive recommendation following additional analyses and modelling on clinical and cost-effectiveness provided by the company after the initial consultation.