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Sustained-release intravitreal implant for chronic DME now available in UK

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Iluvien, a sustained-release intravitreal implant for the treatment of chronic diabetic macular edema, is now available in the United Kingdom, according to a news release from Alimera Sciences.

Furthermore, the U.K.’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which ruled last year that Iluvien (sustained-release fluocinolone acetonide) did not meet cost-effectiveness thresholds, is scheduled to meet on May 15 to discuss the simple Patient Access Scheme Alimera submitted for the product.

Under the rapid-review process, the NICE Appraisal Committee will discuss the potential impact of the submission and determine whether an update to NICE’s final guidance is needed. The committee would then most likely begin a 30-day review period, the release said.

Iluvien is implanted using a 25-gauge needle, allowing for a self-healing wound, and can provide a therapeutic effect for up to 3 years, according to the release.

The implant has gained marketing authorization in Austria, the U.K., Portugal, France, Spain and Germany through the decentralized procedure with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency of the U.K. It has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.