Posted by Michael Wonder on 30 Nov 2016
Expensive thyroid cancer drug now $38
30 November 2016 - Thyroid cancer patients spending more than $100,000 a year on treatment will be able to access it for $38 thanks to a federal government subsidy.
Health Minister Sussan Ley says the listing of cancer drug Lenvima on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme from Thursday will help about 140 Australians who currently pay more than $117,000 for one year of treatment.
They'll now be able to get it for $38.30, or $6.20 for concessional patients.
"This listing will help reduce stress for people at a very difficult time in their lives," Ms Ley said.
Lenvima is used to treat thyroid cancer that does not respond to treatment with radioactive iodine, by blocking proteins that encourage cancer cell growth.
It's been shown to significantly delay the cancer's progression.
