Relief is in sight for Australians faced with bills of almost $30,000 a year as a treatment for a severe type of eczema is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.<\/p>\n
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that can have a significant impact on day to day life, including problems sleeping, increased risk of infection, depression and anxiety.<\/p>\n
Unlike other types of eczema, it typically does not go away in a few days or weeks and often returns or flares up after periods of getting better.<\/p>\n
\"The condition may cause physical discomfort, which in turn can cause insomnia, emotional distress, depression, embarrassment, and social stigma,\" Melanie Funk from Eczema Support Australia says.<\/p>\n
\"As a result, people may avoid work, social situations, and relationships.\"<\/p>\n
Rinvoq reduces itching and flare-ups by blocking enzymes that create signals in the body's immune system, resulting in inflammation.<\/p>\n
More than 3500 people are expected to benefit from the new listing, Health Minister Greg Hunt said.<\/p>\n
\"Without this subsidy, patients might pay more than $27,000 per year treatment, instead they'll pay $42.50 or as little as $6.80 per script,\" Mr Hunt said.<\/p>\n
The drug was developed by pharmaceutical company AbbVie, and Australia and New Zealand General Manager Chris Stemple welcomed the move.<\/p>\n
\"We remain committed to innovation and developing a deeper understanding of the disease with the hope of making a difference to the lives of Australians living with this debilitating condition,\" he said.<\/p>\n
The listing of Rinvoq on the PBS has been recommended by the independent Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee.<\/p>\n
It will be available from February 1.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Originally posted here: Relief is in sight for Australians faced with bills of almost $30,000 a year as a treatment for a severe type of eczema is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that can have a significant impact on day to day life, including problems sleeping, increased risk of infection, depression and anxiety. Unlike other types of eczema, it typically does not go away in a few days or weeks and often returns or flares up after periods of getting better. Continue reading
\nEczema treatment subsidy to help thousands - 7NEWS<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"