benralizumab (Fasenra)

following a full submission: 

benralizumab (Fasenra®) is accepted for restricted use within NHSScotland.

Indication under review: As an add-on maintenance treatment in adult patients with severe eosinophilic asthma inadequately controlled despite high-dose inhaled corticosteroids plus long-acting β-agonists.

SMC restriction: patients with blood eosinophils ≥150 cells/microlitre, and either ≥4 prior asthma exacerbations needing systemic corticosteroids in the previous 12 months or treatment with continuous oral corticosteroids over the previous 6 months.

Benralizumab, compared with placebo, reduced asthma exacerbation rates and was associated with greater reductions in continuous oral corticosteroid dose while maintaining stable asthma in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma.

This SMC advice takes account of the benefit of a Patient Access Scheme (PAS) that improves the cost effectiveness of benralizumab. This advice is contingent upon the continuing availability of the PAS in NHSScotland or a list price that is equivalent or lower.