In a groundbreaking development, NHS England is set to transform multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment with the introduction of cladribine tablets, a ‘take at home’ therapy poised to benefit thousands of patients.
As the first healthcare system in Europe to make cladribine widely available, the NHS continues to push boundaries in patient care and innovation.
Cladribine, requiring just 20 days of treatment over four years, offers a convenient alternative to traditional MS therapies that often necessitate frequent hospital visits for infusions or self-administered injections. The tablet is now approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for patients with active relapsing-remitting MS, a decision that significantly broadens access to this life-changing medication.
Unlike existing treatments, cladribine provides flexibility for patients planning a family. Its short-course regimen over two years allows patients to safely conceive in years three and four of the cycle. Nearly 80% of patients taking cladribine experienced no relapses during clinical trials, which also revealed a dramatic reduction—7.5 times fewer new brain lesions—compared to those on a placebo.
NHS Medical Director for Specialised Commissioning, Professor James Palmer, commented:
“The NHS is proud to be the first healthcare system in Europe to roll out this innovative ‘take at home’ tablet widely for patients with active multiple sclerosis.
“Broadening access to cladribine means thousands more patients will benefit from managing their treatment at home rather than regularly attending hospital appointments – as well giving women with MS who want to get pregnant more flexibility to do so around their treatment.
“This decision will also significantly free up clinical time, helping clinicians see more patients and boosting NHS productivity. It’s another clear example of the NHS’s commitment to improving patient care through innovation.”
MS, a debilitating neurological condition affecting over 150,000 people in the UK, often brings severe pain, fatigue, cognitive challenges, and vision problems. Cladribine’s efficiency and minimal hospital requirement mean patients can focus more on their lives and less on medical logistics.
Previously reserved for those with highly active MS, cladribine’s wider availability comes as part of the NHS’s broader commitment to adopting innovative treatments. Developed by Merck, cladribine tablets join other time-saving advancements, such as injectable cancer therapies atezolizumab and Phesgo, which have improved patient experience while easing clinical workloads.
The rollout is projected to save thousands of clinical hours annually, alleviating pressure on NHS resources and creating capacity for other services. Approximately 2,000 patients are expected to receive cladribine in the first three years.
This initiative aligns with the NHS’s track record of delivering exceptional results, including achieving the government’s target of 2.2 million additional planned appointments seven months ahead of schedule last year. By embracing such innovations, the NHS underscores its mission to provide world-class care while maximising productivity.
Cladribine’s introduction marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against MS, offering hope and improved quality of life to thousands across the country. As the NHS continues to lead Europe in healthcare innovation, patients can look forward to a future where cutting-edge treatments become the norm.
Image credit: iStock
