§ Gillian MerronTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what assessment has been made by the NICE on the effectiveness of TNF alpha blockers in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis; [42537]
(2) whether TNF alpha-blockers are available on NHS prescription. [42538]
§ Jacqui SmithTNF alpha blockers are available on the national health service (NHS). All licensed medicines are available on the NHS unless they are listed on schedule 10 or 11 to the NHS (General Medical Services) Regulations 1992 which restricts prescribing by GPs.
The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) issued guidance on 22 March 2002, recommending the use in appropriate cases of etanercept for the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and etanercept and infliximab for rheumatoid arthritis.
NICE's guidance is available on the internet at www.nice.org.uk or by writing to NICE at 11 Strand, London, WC2N 5HR.