ARTHRITIS sufferers could get pain relief from a new generation smart drug if doctors decide they qualify for treatment.

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence has approved the use of MabThera after it was found to reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms by more than 50 per cent in a third of patients treated.

Dr Rita Robertson, director of public health for Warrington Primary Care Trust, said: "The PCT's expectation is that people who fulfil the clinical conditions for rituximab (marketed as MabThera) will have it prescribed for them.

"Patients who are unhappy with a decision not to prescribe can appeal to the PCT by contacting the patient advisory liasion service officer in the first instance."

Eileen Fitzgerald, chairman of Warrington Older People's Forum, said: "Hopefully MabThera will be available for all older people in the town who would benefit from the drug and that health professionals ensure that people with rheumatoid arthritis are aware of the drug.

"Since NHS Trusts have three months to ensure that all qualifying rheumatoid arthritis patients receive MabThera it is hoped that once again, cost does not prove a barrier."

Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking the joints. MabThera targets one of the immune system cells involved.

Neil Betteridge, chief executive of Arthritis Care, has hailed the go-ahead for the drug as a triumph'.

Dr Robertson added: "NHS organisations have three months to comply with NICE guidance.

"We require all health care providers such as hospitals, to comply with NICE guidance. It is part of our contract with them, and we monitor compliance.

"Therefore we will ensure that Warrington patients who need specialist arthritis management are under the care of a doctor who specialises in rheumatoid arthritis.

"Each patient's needs are different and it is not compulsory for a patient to be prescribed a particular medicine for a condition.

"It will be the decision of the responsible doctor to decide whether the patient will benefit from rituximab."