Authors' objectives:

To summarise the current research evidence on Xigris (previously known as Zovant) for severe sepsis.

Authors' recommendations: - Clinical impact: The clinical impact associated with the introduction of Xigris may be significant as it is a new treatment for a patient group that has a very high (30-50%) mortality rate. - Service impact: It is likely that there will be some service impact associated with the introduction of Xigris as intensive care staff will need to consider treatment in a patient group where there is currently no treatment. The definition of severe sepsis will also need to be better understood generally so that those patients who could benefit are identified and offered treatment. - Patient issues: It is unlikely that there will be many patient issues associated with the introduction of Xigris for severe sepsis. However, the increased risk of serious bleeding during infusion will need to be taken into consideration. - Financial and overall NHS impact: It is difficult to determine the financial impact of introducing Xigris for severe sepsis at this time. Although if a large proportion of the estimated 21,000 patients with severe sepsis per year in the UK are offered this drug, costs could be substantial.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2001

URL for published report: http://www.hsric.nihr.ac.uk/search

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: NIHR Horizon Scanning Centre

Contact Address: The NIHR Horizon Scanning Centre, Department of Public Health, Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, School of Health and Population Sciences, University of Birmingham, 90 Vincent Drive, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2SP. United Kingdom. Tel: +44 121 414 7831, Fax: +44 121 2269

Contact Name: c.packer@bham.ac.uk

Contact Email: c.packer@bham.ac.uk

Copyright: National Horizon Scanning Centre