Biogen Idec is pleased to announce that from 1st March 2015 Plegridy (peginterferon beta-1a) will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for treatment in patients with clinically definite relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Plegridy is the first pegylated beta interferon to be PBS listed for MS, and is only required to be injected once every two weeks.

Newcastle-based neurologist Associate Professor Jeannette Lechner-Scott says improved access to new options for MS patients offers choice for the future. “Our patients respond differently to different medications so having new options is important in maximising positive results for them. Patients also have individual preferences for different modes of treatment so having access to new medicines and different treatment options is very helpful,” said Professor Lechner-Scott. “I certainly welcome additional effective treatment options for our patients across the MS spectrum.”

Plegridy was approved for supply in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in November 2014. Plegridy is the only pegylated beta interferon approved for use in MS and can be administered subcutaneously with the Plegridy Pen, a new, ready-to-use auto-injector.

For more details, go to: http://www.firstwordpharma.com/node/1264621#axzz3SY5H3H5o