The Australian Government’s continuing investment in cheaper medicines means more than 100,000 Australians with eczema will benefit from a new treatment being listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
From October 1, Tacrolimus0.1% ointment, marketed as aZematop will be listed on the PBS for eligible patients aged 16 years and over with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema.
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, painful and inflamed skin.
The condition can be relapsing and remitting, with periods when symptoms become worse, known as flares. Symptoms can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.
The treatment will be for people aged 16 years and over with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.
More than 143,000 Australians are expected to benefit from the listing each year.
Without PBS subsidy, patients could pay more than $54 per script.
In addition, from 1 October, more than 5,700 Australians with severe asthma or hives are expected to benefit from new pre-filled pen forms of Omalizumab (Omlyclo®) which would cost more than $450 per script without the PBS subsidy.
Eligible patients will instead pay a maximum of $25 per script, or $7.70 with a concession card.
Since July 2022, the Albanese Government has approved extra funding for 497 new and amended listings on the PBS.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
“The Albanese Government is committed to delivering affordable, effective medicines to Australians.
“I have heard from people who live with this chronic skin condition and I know how painful and debilitating it can be.
“This listing of aZematop will give more than one hundred thousand Australians access to an affordable treatment on the PBS.
“From October, thousands of Australians with severe asthma or hives can also benefit from a new pre-filled pen form of Omlyclo on the PBS, dramatically reducing the cost.”
