Following the announcement by the National Institute for Health
and Care Excellence (NICE) that it has recommended tirzepatide as
a new treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes,
Health Minister Neil O’Brien said:
“This drug could provide an invaluable new option for thousands
of type 2 diabetes patients to access the medicines they need.
“We know that shortages of other types of medications for
treating type 2 diabetes – including Ozempic – have caused
distress and frustration for patients, so it’s welcome news that
NICE has recommended a new treatment option for this condition.”
Background
- We are managing supply issues with Ozempic and other
glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), primarily
licensed for treatment of type 2 diabetes
- We have issued guidance and a National Patient Safety Alert,
which strongly discourages off-label use of GLP-1 RAs for the
management of obesity and sets clear actions for healthcare
professionals to conserve existing stock of these medications for
use in patients with diabetes
- We expect all providers of healthcare services, whether NHS
or private, and all those with responsibility for prescribing to
take appropriate account of national guidance such as National
Patient Safety Alerts and Medicine Supply Notifications.
- Medicines which are solely licensed to treat type 2 diabetes
should not be routinely prescribed for weight loss.
