NHS England has become the first healthcare system in Europe to roll out cladribine, a take-at-home immunotherapy pill for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

NICE has noted that cladribine provides similar clinical benefits to existing treatments while significantly reducing the need for hospital visits, which enhances NHS productivity.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended cladribine for adults with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), marking a significant advancement in treatment options.

Final guidance from NICE is anticipated in April 2025, with plans for access to cladribine in Wales, Northern Ireland, and possibly Scotland to follow.

Clinical trials have shown that cladribine significantly reduces both the frequency and severity of MS relapses, with a notable 58% reduction in annual relapse rates observed in the CLARITY trial.

With over 150,000 individuals in the UK living with MS, and 85% diagnosed with relapsing forms, the introduction of cladribine is a crucial step in managing this condition.

Patients will take the medication only 20 times over a four-year period, drastically reducing the need for hospital visits compared to traditional therapies.

This treatment allows patients to maintain their daily routines, as they can avoid lengthy travel for appointments and safely conceive six months after completing the treatment cycle.

Clare Elgar, a patient using cladribine since January 2021, shared her positive experience, highlighting how the at-home treatment has enabled her to maintain her routine without frequent hospital trips.

The MS Society has expressed strong support for the introduction of cladribine, emphasizing its importance for lifestyle compatibility and the increased treatment choices it offers patients.

An estimated 2,000 patients are expected to benefit from cladribine treatment in the first three years of its rollout, providing a significant boost to patient care.

Prof. James Palmer emphasized the NHS's commitment to improving patient management and productivity through the introduction of this innovative treatment option.