Soliris A Step Closer For Life Saving Drugs Program
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee has recommended to the Australian Government that it consider funding the drug Soliris® (eculizumab) for the treatment of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH) through the Life Saving Drugs Program.
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29 September 2010
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) has recommended to the Australian Government that it consider funding the drug Soliris® (eculizumab) for the treatment of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH) through the Life Saving Drugs Program.
While the PBAC has recommended Soliris for consideration under the Life Saving Drugs Program, there are several steps that must be completed before the Government can consider the drug.
These steps include funding arrangement negotiations with the sponsor, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, which are currently occurring with my department.
In addition, an expert Disease Advisory Committee is being established, to examine and develop eligibility and continuation criteria for patients to receive treatment, and treatment guidelines.
I am pleased to announce that Professor Jeff Szer has agreed to chair the committee, and is working with the Department of Health and Ageing to identify specialist haematologists to be part of the committee.
These actions will be progressed as soon as possible so that the Government can consider funding Soliris under the Life Savings Drug Program. My department will work closely with the sponsor, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, through this process.
PNH is a very rare and life-threatening blood disorder that causes premature red blood cell death. Its effects can include blood clots, kidney failure and other serious complications.
Soliris reduces the breakdown of red blood cells, the underlying cause of these complications, and therefore improves symptoms and reduces the risk of premature death or severe illness associated with PNH.
The Government provides funds through the Life Saving Drugs Program for expensive and life-saving drugs which are accepted by the PBAC as clinically effective but which are not available as pharmaceutical benefits because they do not meet cost-effectiveness criteria.
For all media inquiries, please contact the Minister's Office on 02 6277 7220
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