Sandoz receives first ever NICE biosimilar recommendation

Sandoz has announced that Omnitrope, its biosimilar treatment for child growth deficiencies, has received a recommendation from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE).

The UK-based body named the injectable treatment as one of seven somatropin products recommended for use against these conditions, representing the first time NICE has ever granted an endorsement of this kind to a biosimilar.

It came on the back of results from clinical trials which compared Omnitrope’s safety and efficacy to that of its reference product, which found no significant differences.

Ameet Mallik, global head of Sandoz Biopharmaceuticals, said the decision will have ramifications “far beyond the UK” in demonstrating the equal standing biosimilars have with branded drugs in terms of effectiveness and quality.

He added: “This latest guidance further reinforces the confidence that leading authorities have in our products.”

Last month, Sandoz announced a deal to purchase Oriel Therapeutics, an agreement which will allow the firm to expand its offering of respiratory treatments.