FROM 01 Apr 2025, women with severe follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) deficiency will have immediate access to the combination therapy Pergoveris (follitropin alfa/lutropin alfa) through the PBS.
This ovarian stimulation injection was previously only funded in later IVF cycles.
In addition, double the number of Pergoveris pens (four instead of two) per script will now be reimbursed, meaning women will pay just one patient co-payment for up to four pens.
Without the PBS subsidy, four Pergoveris pens would cost more than $3,500.
"This PBS change will provide greater access, convenience and affordability for patients going through the IVF process," said Dr Paul Atkinson, National Medical Director & Fertility Specialist at Adora Fertility.
"Fertility specialists have long advocated for changes to remove barriers and make it easier for patients along their fertility journey.
"The announcement is a big win for Australians impacted by fertility issues," he said.
"Our patients will now be able to access Pergoveris from the get-go, rather than having to first go through the anguish of multiplecycles.
"More cycles mean more time, and for women up against their biological clock this adds another challenge to the IVF process."
Also to be added to the PBS is the progestogen-only oral contraceptive Slinda (drospirenone 4mg), available from 01 May.
Currently, around 80,000 Australian women are paying up to $80 for a three-month supply of the drug, and will instead pay $31.60 (or $7.70 for concession holders) for a four-month supply.
"Progestogen-only pills are especially suitable for older women, women at increased risk of blood clots, those who suffer migraine attacks, breast-feeding mothers, those who smoke, are overweight, or have high blood pressure," said Dr Terri Foran, Sexual Health Physician.
The new subsidy is in addition to the Federal Government's $573 million women's health funding announcement made in early Feb.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 17 Mar 25
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