European Medicines Association (EMA) statement on Obeticholic acid (Ocaliva) for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)
The European Medicines Association (EMA) issued a statement on Obeticholic acid (Ocaliva) for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) on 28 06 2024.
The EMA has recommended that the marketing authorisation for Ocaliva be revoked in the European Union following results of the COBALT trial, 747-302 . In the UK EMA recommendations do not apply, as we are regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). At present, there are no changes to the recommendations on use of Obeticholic acid in PBC from the MHRA or the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and so current prescribing practices should NOT change.
We shall update the UK liver community if there are any changes to the recommendations on the use of Obeticholic acid.
A new collection of genomics educational resources for gastroenterologists and hepatologists is now available
NHS England’s Genomics Education Programme has added a new collection for GeNotes (genomic notes for clinicians) focused on gastro-hepatology.
Vacancy: Member of the ESE Gastroenterology & Hepatology European Specialty Examining Board
The British Society of Gastroenterology, the European Board of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK are seeking to appoint a member of the ESE Gastroenterology & Hepatology Examining Board.
Applications open for BSG Deputy Chair Education
Applications are now open for the role of BSG Deputy Chair Education from June 2025.