Pharmac to widen access to 'life-changing' cystic fibrosis drugs

Pharmac says it will widen access to "life-changing" treatments for people living with cystic fibrosis starting next month.

Access to drugs Trikafta and Kalydeco will be available for all people with eligible mutations, and Pharmac will fund Alyftrek for the first time for people with eligible mutations from April 1.

Pharmac Director Pharmaceuticals Adrienne Martin said the decision meant more people, including young children, would have access to the medicines earlier.

"Trikafta has already changed the lives of hundreds of New Zealanders with cystic fibrosis," she said.

"Damage from cystic fibrosis begins very early in life. Earlier access to these medicines can help prevent irreversible harm, improve quality of life, and give families greater certainty and peace of mind."

Cystic fibrosis is a lifelong condition which affects around 500 New Zealanders, including children, causing thick mucus to build up in the body leading to serious lung infections.

There is currently no cure, with those affected having a shorter expected life span.

Trikafta, Kalydeco and Alyftrek treat the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis by helping the body produce thinner mucus.

Trikafta is currently approved in use for children aged two and older, while Alyftrek is approved for children aged six and older.

"Widening access to these treatments will also benefit the health system," Martin said. "People are likely to need fewer hospital admissions and less ongoing treatment over time."

Martin said Pharmac's decision followed consultation with people who had cystic fibrosis, their families, health professionals and advocacy groups.

"We received over 780 responses, and people told us how important earlier access is," she said.

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"They said that this decision could mean their toddlers grow up going to daycare, playing with friends, and staying out of hospital.

"While weren’t able to make every change that was suggested, we’ve listened carefully and will continue working with Health New Zealand to monitor access and consider further improvements over time."