Servier Labs says NICE ignores patient concerns

Servier Laboratories has called for the better treatment of osteoporosis patients by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE).

Following a Judicial Review against NICE’s guidelines on osteoporosis, Servier’s chief executive Michael Sumpter said many sufferers are still being denied access to “appropriate treatments” such as Protelos, despite the review process now being in its eighth year.

The institute’s guidance states patients who are intolerant to bisphosphonates – the recommended first approach at present – must wait for a deterioration of bone mineral density before another therapy is offered.

Some 15 per cent of female osteoporosis patients who cannot take bisphosphonates are therefore left unprotected from the risk of bone fractures, the company said.

“We understand and acknowledge the role of NICE, but frustratingly the organisation continues to ignore the concerns expressed by many leading healthcare professionals and patient organisations,” Mr Sumpter commented.

He added Servier Laboratories – which began activities in the UK in 1963 – is “committed” to ensuring every woman in the UK who is suffering from postmenopausal osteoporosis has better access to Protelos, which promotes strength by building bone.