Australians grappling with challenging and debilitating health issues, such as juvenile arthritis, rare liver conditions, and multiple sclerosis, will now experience reduced treatment costs thanks to new additions to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) unveiled by the Albanese Government.
"The medications we are including in this scheme are transformative for individuals battling distressing and potentially life-threatening ailments," stated Mark Butler, Australia’s Minister for Health and Ageing.
"If it weren’t for the PBS, patients in Australia could be faced with expenses in the thousands instead of the newly adjusted maximum fee of $25 per prescription, or merely $7.70 for those holding a concession card."
Expanded Access to Humira
One significant enhancement is the broader availability of adalimumab, commonly known as Humira®, which will now receive subsidies for treating juvenile idiopathic arthritis, in addition to other pediatric immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) already covered, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and chronic plaque psoriasis. These medical conditions result in painful inflammation that can impact joints, skin, and the gastrointestinal tract, affecting aspects of growth, education, and everyday life.
It is estimated that between 18,500 and 30,100 Australians aged 0-24 are living with some form of arthritis. Without the support of the PBS, families could find themselves facing costs around $650 for each Humira prescription.
Bylvay: A New Addition
In another groundbreaking move, Odevixibat, branded as Bylvay®, will be available under the PBS for the first time, aimed at treating progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC), a rare genetic liver disorder that predominantly impacts children but can also manifest in adults. PFIC leads to severe itching, sleep disturbances, and ongoing liver damage, which can necessitate a liver transplant. Globally, PFIC is believed to affect approximately 1 in 50,000 to 1 in 100,000 live births. Without PBS subsidies, families could incur expenses exceeding $200,000 for each prescription.
New Listing for Multiple Sclerosis
Additionally, the PBS expansion includes ublituximab, marketed as Briumvi®, which is now subsidized for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). This autoimmune condition significantly affects the central nervous system, leading to impairments in mobility, vision, and overall independence. Reports indicate that in 2024, over 14,000 patients utilized a similar treatment through the PBS, with out-of-pocket costs soaring as high as $15,000 per script.
A Trusted Government Initiative
"The PBS ranks among the most reliable government services in Australia, and we are dedicated to enhancing it by incorporating the latest recommended treatments from our experts," emphasized Minister Butler.
