Monday, August 07, 2023
Amarin Corporation plc recently announced a significant milestone for VAZKEPA® (icosapent ethyl) as it receives approval for reimbursement in Scotland from the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC). To facilitate patient access to this newly developed medicine, a Patient Access Scheme has been put in place, involving a confidential pricing agreement proposed by pharmaceutical companies.
VAZKEPA® has been approved for secondary prevention in patients with established cardiovascular disease (CVD) who meet specific criteria. These criteria include being on a stable dose of statins, having specific low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, elevated fasting triglycerides, and a history of certain cardiovascular conditions.
Professor Adrian Brady, a Consultant Cardiologist at Glasgow Royal Infirmary, emphasized that the acceptance of icosapent ethyl is a significant advancement in the fight against CVD in Scotland. This innovative treatment option, containing a highly purified omega-3 fatty acid, offers healthcare professionals an additional approach for eligible high-risk patients, potentially reducing the occurrence of cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.
CVD is a major concern in Scotland, leading to a significant number of hospital admissions and deaths each year, along with a substantial economic impact on NHS Scotland and the overall economy.
Patrick Holt, President, and CEO of Amarin, expressed the importance of SMC's acceptance and reimbursement of VAZKEPA® for high-risk cardiovascular patients in Scotland. Amarin is collaborating with Health Boards across Scotland to ensure formulary inclusion, aiming to provide access to VAZKEPA® for eligible patients by the end of 2023.
Amarin is also actively progressing pricing and reimbursement discussions in other European markets to enhance patient access to VAZKEPA® throughout the region, with updates to be shared as developments occur.
https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/08/07/2719579/0/en/Scottish-Medicines-C[…]Reduce-Cardiovascular-Risk-for-Patients-in-Scotland-1.html
