IQWiG backs Eliquis for additional indication

Germany's Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Healthcare (IQWiG) said Eliquis apixaban from Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (NYSE:BMY) and partner Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) has "significant" additional benefit to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in adults with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) with one or more risk factors -- an indication approved by the European Commission in November. IQWiG said Eliquis provides "significant" additional benefit over vitamin K antagonists in people 65 years of age or older who are still eligible for treatment with a vitamin K antagonist, and over aspirin in all people ineligible for treatment with a vitamin K antagonist -- the comparators requested by Germany's Federal Joint Committee (G-BA). The institute said Eliquis has no additional benefit for patients younger than 65 years of age who are still eligible for treatment with a vitamin K antagonist. The partners have until April 23 to respond. A final benefit assessment from G-BA is expected in mid-June. ...