NICE rejects Aimovig as a treatment for migraine.- Novartis

In a final appraisal, the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) decided that data supporting Aimovig are insufficient to issue a positive recommendation. NICE had previously rejected the application in January.

Currently, migraine sufferers try at least three oral preventative drugs before doctors recommend a specialized treatment such as Aimovig or Allergan�s Botox. NICE stated that the data comparing Aimovig to Botox are not strong enough to warrant extra spending on the new drug.

That comes despite a convenience advantage for Aimovig. Botox requires multiple injections into the head and neck by a healthcare professional, while Aimovig can be self-administered at home once a month, eliminating the need for numerous doctor visits. Novartis said in a statement that it was disappointed by the decision, which comes despite the company making an improved commercial offer to try to secure access.