8 November 2017 - PHARMAC is seeking feedback on a proposal to list methylnaltrexone bromide (Relistor) 12 mg/0.6 mL injection in Section B and Part II of Section H of the Pharmaceutical Schedule from 1 January 2018; funding would be subject to Special Authority criteria and HML restrictions.

From 1 January 2018, patients receiving palliative care in the community or in DHB hospitals who have opioid induced constipation, and for whom oral and rectal treatments for opioid constipation are ineffective or unable to be tolerated, would be eligible to receive funded methylnaltrexone bromide.

Any relevant practitioner would be able to apply for Special Authority approval for patients who meet the criteria.

Read PHARMAC consultation