Pharmacy Daily | PBAC to reverse kids meds’ decision

THE Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) has recommended removing the limitations requiring specialist prescribing for asthma medications for children, and again allowing patients to receive a prescription from their GP.

The PBAC had previously recommended that 50mcg Axotide Junior and Flixotide Junior (fluticasone propionate) be restricted to children aged six years and under, be initially prescribed by a respiratory specialist, and only be prescribed with authority approval by Medicare.

These changes were made to the PBS on 01 Apr.

However, at this month's meeting, the PBAC acknowledged the concerns related to the restrictions, particularly for families living in rural and remote areas, as well as from clinicians.

Department of Health and Aged Care officials will now work with the supplier, GlaxoSmithKline, to finalise the revised listing details, and the Government will make further announcements when an agreement is reached.

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler explained, "I wrote to the PBAC in May, after health professionals and advocacy groups raised concerns with my office, and asked them to take another look at these issues.

"I am pleased that the PBAC has now reconsidered its advice about Fluxotide Jr and Axotide Jr and now patients will now be able to get their prescription from their GP.

"The original recommendation led to unintended consequences for GPs and families and young children who have limited access to alternative asthma treatment."