Posted by Michael Wonder on 30 Nov 2018
Proposal involving treatments for multiple sclerosis, narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
30 November 2018 - PHARMAC is seeking feedback on a proposal involving the following products through a provisional agreement with Teva Pharma New Zealand:
- fund a new pack size of modafinil (Modavigil) for narcolepsy in conjunction with a price decrease, from 1 February 2019
- fund a new brand of methylphenidate extended-release tablets (Methylphenidate ER - Teva) for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) subject to the same restrictions as the Concerta and Ritalin LA brands of methylphenidate extended-release, following Medsafe approval
- fund a new 40 mg formulation of glatiramer acetate (Copaxone), which would mean fewer injections for people taking this medicine, from 1 February 2019
- delist the current 20 mg formulation of glatiramer acetate from 1 July 2019.
PHARMAC is also proposing to change the distribution arrangements for three multiple sclerosis (MS) treatments: interferon beta-1-alpha (Avonex); interferon beta-1-beta (Betaferon); and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone), to align with the other funded MS treatments.
