PHARMAC is pleased to announce the approval of a proposal for azacitidine (Vidaza), lenalidomide (Revlimid) and thalidomide (Thalomid) that was the subject of a consultation letter dated 26 June 2014.

In summary, the effect of the decision is that from 1 September 2014:

• Azacitidine (Vidaza) 100 mg injection and 1 mg for ECP will be funded for patients with intermediate-2 or high risk myelodysplastic syndrome, chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia or MDS-associated acute myeloid leukaemia
• Lenalidomide (Revlimid) 10 and 25 mg capsules will be funded for patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma
• The price and subsidy for thalidomide (Thalomid) 50 mg and 100 mg capsules will be reduced

For more details, go to: http://www.pharmac.health.nz/news/notification-2014-08-13-azacitidine-lenalidomide-thalidomide/