Deal struck to secure place of eczema drug on PBS

Health Minister Mark Butler has struck a deal to secure the place of a life-changing eczema treatment on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, saving patients about $20,000 a year.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - NewsWire Photos - December 9, 2024: Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler holds a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Health Minister Mark Butler has struck a deal to secure the place of a “life-changing” eczema treatment on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, saving patients about $20,000 a year.

After higher-than-anticipated uptake risked that drug sponsor Sanofi would withdraw the medicine from the PBS, the federal government forged an agreement with the healthcare company to ensure it remains listed.

The drug, Dupixent, was added to the scheme in 2021 and has been prescribed to almost 20,000 Australians living with severe eczema.

Under the PBS, the drug costs patients a maximum of $31.60 per script, or just $7.70 with a concession card. Delivered as an injection, it reduces inflammation and provides relief, and is available for patients aged 12 years and older.

Mr Butler said the agreement between Sanofi, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee and the government would ensure the drug remained affordable to thousands of people struggling with the condition.

“Since it was first listed on the PBS in 2021, Dupixent has improved the quality of life for thousands of Australians with severe eczema,” he said. “The demand has been higher than expected, and we’ve worked hard to make sure that it remains affordable.”

Eczema Support Australia managing director Melanie Funk said the announcement was a relief to those suffering from severe eczema. “Our Christmas really has come early,” she said. “Dupixent has been life-changing for my twin boys and thousands of other Australians impacted by this debilitating, lifelong skin condition.

“Without this medicine, many lives would be unbearable.”

Experts and advocates wrote to Mr Butler and Sanofi urging them to ensure Dupixent remained on the PBS. When a medication is prescribed in higher numbers than anticipated under the PBS, the drug sponsor becomes liable to pay the difference to the government.