extended release morphine sulphate for epidural injection (Depodur)

Advice

Following a re-submission

extended release epidural morphine (Depodur) is not recommended for use within NHS Scotland for the relief of post-operative pain following major orthopaedic, abdominal or pelvic surgery.

Extended-release epidural morphine has shown some advantages in terms of efficacy versus a single dose of epidural opioid. However, as there are limited comparative data versus epidural analgesia techniques currently used in NHS Scotland it was difficult to assess clinical efficacy in relation to current Scottish practice.

The manufacturer did not present a sufficiently robust economic analysis to gain acceptance by SMC.

The licence holder has indicated their intention to resubmit or request an Independent Review Panel.