Nice backs “ changing life ” for dust allergies

Thousands of people with severe dust allergy could benefit from new daily treatment “that changes their life”.

The National Institute of Health Care and Excellence of Care (Nice) recommends a daily tablet that has been demonstrated to reduce symptoms.

Dr. Helen Evans-Howells, a general practitioner from Bournemouth and an allergic patient expert, said that “clearly” evidence has shown that treatment was an “effective solution”.

The tablet, known as Acarizax, is the first of its kind according to a declaration published by Nice.

The Institute published his recommendations for the tablet, Made by Alk-Abello, which is an option to treat allergic rhinitis of dust from moderate to severe house dust.

It is estimated that 13,000 people suffer from allergy in England and this new treatment will suit people aged 12 to 65.

Dr. Evans-Howells said she had “had an experience” of allergies.

She explained: “This medication could change their life for people affected by serious symptoms that include significant fatigue, congestion and facial swelling.

“The evidence clearly shows that it offers an effective solution for those who have struggled with standard treatments.”

Acarizax, which would be available via the NHS in England, works by increasing the body’s resistance to dust mites.

Nice said that clinical trials have shown that treatment was “particularly beneficial” for those whose symptoms cannot be managed by standard treatments, such as steroid nasal sprays and antihistamines.

Helen Knight, director of medication assessment at Nice, said: “This is a chronic and debilitating condition that can prevent people from going to their workplace or school.

“This medication has proven to improve symptoms, helping people live their lives and has the potential to really change their lives.”

Amena Warner, responsible for clinical services at Allergy UK, added: “Although the initial access to a specialized allergy service is mainly necessary to start treatment, it can be continued as a home treatment, without needing Visits to the frequent hospital that lead to a trip and time costs.

“The patient’s benefit will be of great scale and we welcome this decision.”