Thousands of hay fever sufferers will soon be prescribed a new treatment on the NHS
RELIEF ON NHS Thousands of hay fever sufferers will soon be prescribed a new treatment on the NHS
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THOUSANDS of hay fever sufferers will soon be prescribed a new treatment on the NHS.
An under-the-tongue tablet — sold under brand name Itulazax — trains the body to tolerate more pollen through exposure.
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And trials show it can significantly reduce the worst allergy symptoms.
NHS spending watchdog Nice has now recommended it for people whose hay fever persists after basic treatment.
Nice's medicines evaluations chief Helen Knight said: "This treatment will help improve people's quality of life.
"Severe tree pollen allergies trap people indoors during beautiful weather and disrupt their work, education and family life.
"The daily tablet offers genuine long-term relief rather than just managing symptoms."
However, it only works on those with a birch pollen allergy — which is about a quarter of hay fever sufferers, estimated to be 27,000 people.
The NHS in England will offer it within three months of Nice publishing its final guidance.
Amena Warner, head of clinical services at Allergy UK, said: "Many people don't realise how awful it is having an itchy, runny nose, sneezing episodes or itchy, irritated eyes in the pollen season.
"We frequently hear from people who avoid time outdoors, keep doors and windows shut, check pollen counts and try and minimise any exposure, which takes a significant toll on their physical and emotional wellbeing.
"Nice's recommendation is so important because it provides a genuine opportunity for people to manage the root cause of their pollen allergy, offering the chance to break free from this burden and enjoy a better quality of life."
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