§ Mr. BradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment his Department has made of the clinical efficacy of Alendronate (Fosamax) in the treatment of osteoporosis, following trials at Manchester Royal Infirmary. [149385]
§ Dr. Ladyman[holding answer 20 January 2004] The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) have been looking at five osteoporosis drugs, including Fosamax (Alendronate), as part of a technology appraisal. Their draft recommendations are currently out for consultation. NICE has a key role to play in widening choice. Patients and carers need clear authoritative advice on the sort of care that might be appropriate for them and the standards of care they can expect from the national health service. NICE is due to publish its technology appraisal on drug therapies for osteoporosis in June 2004