The Australian Government has announced significant additions to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making life-saving medicines for rare genetic disorders and certain cancers more affordable for Australians.
As of today, new medicines and treatments are being subsidized, ensuring that those affected by hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis (ATTR), neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), and specific cancers can access essential medications without the burden of prohibitive costs.
New PBS Listings:
1. Selumetinib (Koselugo®):
For the first time, this medicine is listed on the PBS to treat symptomatic, inoperable benign nerve tumors in children aged two years and older with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a rare genetic disorder affecting approximately one in 3,000 Australians. NF1 commonly leads to tumors that cause severe symptoms, including pain, disfigurement, and other complications that severely impact quality of life. With the subsidy, around 170 children each year will benefit from Koselugo, which otherwise could cost families up to $146,000 annually.
2. Patisiran (Onpattro®):
Patisiran is now available under the PBS to treat hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis (ATTR amyloidosis), a rare, rapidly progressive disease that impacts the nerves, heart, and other organs. Without treatment, this disease can lead to life-threatening complications and death within a few years. Onpattro works by reducing abnormal protein levels, easing the effects of this debilitating disease. Approximately 55 patients per year will benefit from this listing, which without the subsidy would cost $647,500 annually.
3. Tecentriq® SC (atezolizumab):
The Albanese Government has funded the first immunotherapy cancer jab, Tecentriq SC, a new subcutaneous form of the drug that can now be administered via a quick, seven-minute injection. This offers a faster, less intrusive treatment option for more than 2,700 Australians with lung and liver cancer, compared to traditional intravenous infusions. Without PBS support, the cost of Tecentriq SC would be $120,000 per year.
4. Vitrakvi® (larotrectinib):
The PBS listing for Vitrakvi has been expanded to include treatment for adults with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer or soft tissue sarcoma with a specific gene fusion known as neurotrophic tropomyosin receptor kinase (NTRK). This medicine targets abnormal proteins that drive cancer growth, helping to slow or stop tumor progression. About 10 patients per year are expected to benefit from this listing, which could otherwise cost over $300,000 per treatment course.
5. Zyamis® (midazolam):
Zyamis is now listed for the emergency treatment of potentially life-threatening seizures associated with Generalised Convulsive Status Epilepticus (SE), a severe form of epilepsy characterized by prolonged or repeated seizures. More than 10,000 patients each year will benefit from this listing, which without the PBS would cost $270 per prescription.
Affordable Access:
With these new listings, eligible patients will only need to pay a maximum of $31.60 per prescription, or just $7.70 with a concession card. These additions are part of the Australian Government’s ongoing commitment to making healthcare more accessible and affordable for all Australians.
Since July 2022, the government has approved funding for 227 new and amended PBS listings, reinforcing its dedication to public health and ensuring that essential medications are within reach for those who need them most.
Minister Butler’s Statement:
“Providing cheaper medicines to Australians is central to the Albanese Government. These PBS listings are yet another example of providing new help and new hope to Australian kids and adults—help and hope they would otherwise miss out on due to exorbitant costs. The PBS, introduced by a Labor Government, alongside Medibank and Medicare, remains a cornerstone of our commitment to affordable healthcare.”
This announcement is a testament to the government’s pledge to ensure that all Australians can access the medicines they need when they need them, without financial barriers.