Based on the results of the state health technology assessment (HTA), the Center recommends including faricimab in the lists of medicinal products procured with state funds using the managed access agreements procedure.
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is one of the severe and most common complications of diabetic retinopathy. The disease occurs as a result of damage to the small vessels of the retina in diabetes mellitus and can lead to a gradual and often irreversible decrease in vision.
Visual impairment in DME significantly affects a person's quality of life, their ability to work, read, drive a car and perform everyday tasks. That is why timely access to effective treatment is of particular importance for such patients.
The results of the systematic review and network meta-analysis by Watkins et al., 2023 indicate that the use of faricimab under the "treat and extend" regimen with intervals between administrations of up to 16 weeks, compared with the absence of active treatment, may provide a significant clinical improvement in visual function indicators and the anatomical state of the retina. In particular, an improvement in visual acuity by an average of 16,11 letters and a reduction in retinal thickness by 168,97 µm were noted.
The Center's recommendation to include faricimab in state procurement is based on a comprehensive assessment of its clinical effectiveness, safety, economic feasibility, and budget impact.
For Ukrainian patients with diabetic macular edema, this may expand treatment options and help preserve vision and quality of life.
You can review the full conclusion of the state health technology assessment at the link https://surl.lt/rpsbsp
