NICE guidance on ipilimumab for treating previously untreated advanced (unresectable or metastatic) melanoma

The manufacturer (Bristol-Myers Squibb, Uxbridge, UK) submitted evidence for the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of ipilimumab,2 which was reviewed by an independent academic Evidence Review Group (ERG), the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination and Centre for Health Economics Technology Assessment Group, University of York (York, UK).3 An independent appraisal committee of National Health Service (NHS) health professionals, lay members, industry representatives, health economists, and statisticians met twice to develop guidance on ipilimumab. The Committee concluded that, on balance, ipilimumab could be considered a cost-effective use of NHS resources for treating adults with previously untreated advanced (unresectable or metastatic) melanoma, only if the manufacturer provides ipilimumab with a confidential discount to the list price agreed previously between the manufacturer and the Department of Health in England in a patient access scheme.