The cost of a vital medication for Australians living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been slashed after it was listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) on July 1.
Anifrolumab, trading as Saphnelo, is one of four new medications listed on the PBS, as announced by Federal Assistant Health Minister Ged Kearney.
It is specifically used to treat SLE and is expected to provide 1400 patients each year with better access to the treatment.
Without the subsidy, those patients might pay around $19,000 per year for the treatment.
But the listing means eligible patients will pay a maximum of $31.60 per script, or just $7.70 with a concession card.
Federal Assistant Health Minister Ged Kearney said the Federal Government is committed to ensuring Australians had affordable access to the latest treatment options.
“By listing these medicines on the PBS, some for the first time, we’re giving patients and their doctors new options for treatment at an affordable price – with benefits to both people’s health and hip pockets,” she said.
“Thousands of Australians now have more treatment choices. It’s part of our commitment to keep medicines cheaper for Australians, help ease the cost-of-living burden on households, and help people live healthier lives, for longer.”
SLE is an autoimmune type of arthritis where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.
Anifrolumab is targeted therapy that blocks the action of specific proteins that are found at high levels in people with SLE. This can reduce inflammation and, consequently, reduce their symptoms.
It was granted approval for use by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration in March 2022.
If someone living with SLE is interested in this medicine, it is recommended they speak to their rheumatologist about their treatment options.
