PHARMAC is pleased to announce the award of Sole Subsidised Supply Status in the community, and Hospital Supply Status in DHB hospitals, to Novartis’ brand of fentanyl transdermal patch (Fentanyl Sandoz).

This was the subject of a consultation letter dated 8 July 2013. The proposal as consulted on was contingent on registration, which has now occurred.

In summary, the effect of the decision is that:

• Fentanyl Sandoz patches (a matrix-type patch) will be listed in the community and hospital sections of the Pharmaceutical Schedule from 1 February 2015
• The currently funded brand of fentanyl patches (Mylan Fentanyl Patch) will be delisted six months after the listing of Fentanyl Sandoz, on 1 August 2015
• Following the delisting of Mylan Fentanyl Patch, Fentanyl Sandoz patch will be the only funded brand of fentanyl patches until at least 30 June 2016

For more details, go to: http://www.pharmac.health.nz/news/notification-2014-11-17-fentanyl-patches/