The following new and amended PBS listings were implemented on 1 May:
Trastuzumab emtansine
From 1 May 2021, the removal of the Grandfather clause for the treatment of Early HER2 positive breast cancer will come into effect.
Ritalin LA and Concerta
As of 1 May 2021, changes will be made to Ritalin LA and Concerta listings, for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, where applications for multiple strengths (either on the same day or on separate days) are sought, repeats will only be sought for the listed target strength. The restriction will be changed with the removal of “no increase in the maximum quantity or number of units may be authorised” and the maximum quantity for Ritalin LA 40mg and Concerta 36mg will be set for 2.
Cannabidiol
From 1 May 2021, cannabidiol will be listed on the PBS for the treatment of Dravet syndrome. This will be administered as a S100 highly specialised drug – community access for the adjunctive treatment of seizures in patients with Drave syndrome aged 2 years or older. This item is Authority Required (Streamlined).
Mesalazine
From 1 May 2021, a new formulation of mesalazine will be listed on the PBS for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. This will be administered under the same restrictions as the Asacol 800 tablet, but will provide patients with an 8 month supply per prescription, based on maximum dose of 4.8g per day. This item will be a restricted benefit.
This information relates to the administration of these listings by Services Australia. For further information or broader PBS changes, please visit the PBS website.