Multiple sclerosis treatments funding proposal in New Zealand

7 August 2014

New Zealand’s Pharmaceutical Management Agency PHARMAC is seeking feedback on a funding proposal involving five treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS), including two new treatments that are not currently funded – natalizumab and fingolimod.

In summary, this proposal would result, from November 1, in:

natalizumab (Tysabri), supplied by USA-headquartered Biogen Idec (Nasdaq: BIIB), and fingolimod (Gilenya), supplied by Swiss pharma major Novartis (NOV: N), being funded in the community and in District Health Board (DHB) hospitals subject to restrictions; and
changes to the restrictions for funded access, in the community and in DHB hospitals, for interferon beta-1-alpha (Avonex, also from Biogen Idec), interferon beta-1-beta (Betaferon, from Bayer) and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone, from Teva Pharmaceutical Industries).

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