Two lifesaving heart medicines added to the PBS
Two lifesaving heart medicines have been added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
Previous treatments for the two kinds of heart disorder cardiomyopathy, which affect around 4800 Australians, previously cost patients up to $122,000.
Now, with the addition of it to the PBS, patients will only have to pay $31.60 per script, or just $7.70 with a concession card.
One of the medications added to the list is Tafamadis (also known as Vyndamax), which is used to treat transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy - a rare heart disease that can present as shortness of breath and fatigue.
The newly listed treatment slows the progression of the disease and prevents the build-up of thickened heart muscles, and is the most expensive medication costing patients around $122,000 for a year of treatment without the government subsidy.
Camzyos, the treatment for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which affects around 3600 Australians and previously cost around $30,000 per year of treatment, will also be subsidised.
"It's vitally important that Australians have ready and affordable access to the latest treatments," Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said.
"By listing Vyndamax and Camzyos on the PBS we're giving patients and their doctors new options for treatment at an affordable price.
"It's part of the Albanese Government's commitment to keep medicines cheaper for Australians."
Image: Nine