Stephen Williams said "It is alarming that NICE have taken this decision. For many sufferers and their carers these drugs are a lifeline and have been a real benefit. Given that there is a large amount of evidence to show that the drugs have been beneficial in the early stages of Alzheimer's it seems unjust to have to tell a patient that they can be treated, but only after their condition has worsened.
"NICE ought to demonstrate that the way they calculate cost-effectiveness does not unfairly discriminate against older people who are most likely to suffer from this terrible condition. They also need to take into account the wider benefits to society, particularly in reducing social care costs by allowing sufferers to remain independent for longer."
Details of the NICE announcement on "Alzheimer's disease drug appeal outcome" can be found at www.nice.org.uk
