Zytiga (abiraterone) to go on PBS in August 2013

[JimJimJimJim]

The Australian Government announced a few minutes ago that Zytiga (abiraterone) would be available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in August 2013.

 

It will be free, or at low cost to men who need it.

I presume that the approval is for men who have had Taxotere (docetaxel) chemotherapy first, as this is what has been so far been approved in Australia.

 

Many thanks to all who helped to campaign for this life-extending, life-quality-enhancing drug - our members, the people who care for them, other PCFA support group members, and the PCFA organization itself.

 

Members in need before the August date will have to pay for 1 month only at the current price ($3,300 - $3,800). If you need a second dose before the PBS date, the company will give you that for free.

[Geoff Buttfield]

Great news!! Do we know yet if its available as/when a specialist deems fit, or limited (eg. only AFTER chemo?)

[Admin]

Federal Health Minister Tanya Plibersek did not specify in her speech.

 

She can only act on expert advice from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC), which must act in turn on expert advice from the Theraputic Goods Administration (TGA).

 

And the TGA has only so far advised Zytiga should be used after chemotherapy with docetaxel.