UK's NICE seeks more data on Roche arthritis drug

* Agency minded not to recommend RoActemra for reimbursement

* NICE could change its mind if Roche hands over more data

LONDON, Dec 16 (Reuters) - Britain's cost-effectiveness watchdog said it was minded not to recommend Roche's (ROG.VX) new arthritis drug RoActemra on the state health service, but could change its mind if the drugmaker handed over more data.

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) said on Wednesday it wanted a re-analysis of the cost effectiveness of the rheumatoid arthritis drug, which is also known as tocilizumab and is sold in some markets as Actemra.

NICE has also asked Roche for more data comparing the biotech drug's clinical and cost effectiveness with other treatment options.

"We don't think that using it before trying other, existing biologics, such as etanercept, is the right approach, but the additional information may be important in deciding whether -- and how -- tocilizumab can work effectively and cost effectively for patients when these treatments aren't working," said NICE Chief Executive Andrew Dillon.

Etanercept is the generic name of Amgen (AMGN.O) and Pfizer's PFE. blockbuster Enbrel drug. (Reporting by Ben Hirschler; Editing by Jon Loades-Carter)