Botox injections for Scots migraine sufferers rejected on cost grounds

Apr 25 2011 By Peter Laing

PLANS to offer Scots migraine sufferers a revolutionary Botox treatment on the NHS have been scrapped.

It had been approved by medicine watchdogs after research showed Botox can reduce the frequency of crippling attacks.

But while the NHS in England could introduce the treatment next month, it has been ruled out in Scotland.

Up to 67,000 Scots suffer migraines, which can last for days and involve a severe headache, nausea and flashing lights.

Some 1300 sufferers took part in a year-long trial of botulinum toxin injections, which are more commonly used to reduce wrinkles.

Two-thirds said attacks halved and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency approved the drug for those who suffer at least 15 days a month.

But the Scottish Medicines Consortium have rejected the treatment on cost - at least £1600 a patient - and clinical grounds.

Joanna Hamilton-Colclough, director of Migraine Action, said: "It is disappointing that many in Scotland who may benefit from this treatment will not have access to this option."