Petition · past parliament
Parliament to modify a rule* that stops the NHS from saving money on a drug.
Closed
635 signatures
What the petition asks
This is a unique situation. One Swiss pharmaceutical company makes 2 very similar medicines: ranibizumab, known by its trade name Lucentis, and bevacizumab ( Avastin). However Lucentis is 80 times more expensive than Avastin.
Research has shown that both drugs can prevent blindness equally.
Research has shown that both drugs can prevent blindness equally.
NHS patients with age-related macular degeneration took part in the IVAN study in 2008.
The MHRA's Guidance Note 14 specifically prohibits* obtaining a licensed special medicine in order to save money.
The appropriateness of this sanction when applied to the unique circumstance of Lucentis & Avastin merits parliamentary debate to change this law.
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/373505/The_supply_of_unlicensed_medicinal_products__specials_.pdf
The MHRA's Guidance Note 14 specifically prohibits* obtaining a licensed special medicine in order to save money.
The appropriateness of this sanction when applied to the unique circumstance of Lucentis & Avastin merits parliamentary debate to change this law.
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/373505/The_supply_of_unlicensed_medicinal_products__specials_.pdf
Timeline
| 30 Jun 2016 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 30 Dec 2016 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
635
Status
Closed
Opened
30 Jun 2016
Closed
30 Dec 2016
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.