NICE recommends new treatment for blood clots

NICE has issued a Final Appraisal Determination (FAD) for Lixiana (edoxaban) for the treatment and prevention of recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in adults. The draft guidance states: “Edoxaban is recommended, within its marketing authorisation, as an option for treating and for preventing recurrent deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in adults. The Committee concluded that edoxaban could be recommended as a cost-effective use of NHS resources.” Edoxaban, made by the pharmaceutical company Daiichi Sankyo, is one of the class of blood-thinning drugs known as Non-VKA Oral Anti-Coagulants (NOACs). The drugs are used as an alternative to