May 2024 decisions news release

The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC), which advises on newly licensed medicines for use by NHSScotland, has today (Monday, May 13) published advice on two medicines.

Budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort® Turbohaler®) was accepted for use as a reliever therapy for patients with mild asthma aged 12 years and older.

Ruxolitinib cream (Opzelura®) was not recommended for the treatment of vitiligo, where the face is affected. Vitiligo is a condition which causes patches of skin to lose colour.

SMC Vice Chair Dr Robert Peel said: “We are pleased to be able to accept Symbicort Turbohaler for use by NHSScotland. It is the first combination reliever therapy for mild asthma.

“Patients with mild asthma are still at risk of asthma attacks which are driven by airway inflammation. This combination treatment targets both airway inflammation and relaxes the airways and will be welcomed by patients and clinicians alike.

“The committee was not able to accept ruxolitinib cream for the treatment of vitiligo due to uncertainties in the evidence provided. We would welcome a resubmission from the company.”