New, cheaper thrombolytic treatment recommended by NICE

Getty/Bevan Goldswain

By Olivia Bowthorpe

A simpler and cheaper treatment option is now recommended for acute ischaemic stroke in adults.

Tenecteplase, sold as Metalyse, can be given as a single intravenous dose within 4.5 hours of stroke symptoms, once intracranial haemorrhage is excluded.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence's technology appraisal guidance states that tenecteplase is “as effective as alteplase” - the standard thrombolytic treatment after acute ischaemic stroke.

"A cost comparison of tenecteplase with alteplase suggests that it costs less," the guidance states, so "use the least expensive option taking into account administration costs, dosages, price per dose and commercial arrangements".

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said: "We know that stroke is one of the biggest killers and causes of disability, therefore it is important that patients receive treatments that can help to reduce the effects of a stroke as quickly as possible.

“Not only will people who have had an ischaemic stroke be able to access a new treatment option, but the NHS could save millions by switching to it, making it a very effective use of taxpayers’ money.”