Difelikefalin for treating pruritus in people having haemodialysis

2.1 Difelikefalin (Kapruvia, Vifor Pharma) is indicated for 'the treatment of moderate-to-severe pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease in adult patients on haemodialysis'. Difelikefalin should be restricted to in‑centre haemodialysis use only.

2.2 The dosage schedule is available in the summary of product characteristics for difelikefalin.

2.3 The list price of 50‑microgram 1‑ml vials of difelikefalin is £420 for 12 vials (excluding VAT; BNF online accessed February 2023).

2.4 The company has a commercial arrangement. This makes difelikefalin available to the NHS with a discount. The size of the discount is commercial in confidence. It is the company's responsibility to let relevant NHS organisations know details of the discount.