'Life-changing' tablet for dust mite allergies

Thousands of people with a severe dust mite allergy could benefit from a "life changing" new daily treatment.

The National Institute for Healthcare and Care Excellence (NICE) is recommending a daily tablet that has been shown to reduce symptoms.

Dr Helen Evans-Howells, a Bournemouth GP and expert in allergy patients, said the evidence "clearly" showed the treatment was an "effective solution".

The tablet, known as Acarizax, is the first of its kind according to a statement released by NICE.

The institute has published its recommendations for the tablet, made by ALK-Abello, which is an option to treat moderate-to-severe house dust mite allergic rhinitis.

An estimated 13,000 people suffer from the allergy in England and this new treatment will be suitable for those between 12 and 65 years old.

Dr Evans-Howells said she had "lived experience" of allergies.

She explained: "This drug could be life-changing for those affected by severe symptoms which include significant fatigue, congestion, and facial swelling.

"The evidence clearly shows it offers an effective solution for those who have struggled with standard treatments."

Acarizax, which would be available via the NHS in England, works by increasing the body's resistance to house dust mites.

NICE said clinical trials showed the treatment was "particularly beneficial" for those whose symptoms cannot be managed by standard treatments, like steroid nasal sprays and antihistamines.

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said: "This is a chronic, debilitating condition which can prevent people from going to their workplace or school.

"This medicine has been found to improve symptoms, helping people to live their lives and has potential to be truly life changing."

Amena Warner, Head of Clinical Services at Allergy UK, added: "Although initial access to a specialist allergy service will mainly be required to commence treatment, importantly it can be continued as a home treatment, without the need for frequent hospital visits which incur travel and time costs.

"The patient benefit will be far reaching, and we welcome this decision."