SUN Pharma and J&J subsidiary Janssen have announced the 01 Feb funding on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) of their respective severe chronic plaque psoriasis treatments.
Both products are biologicals which specifically inhibit the action of interleukin-23 (IL-23), controlling the release of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-17A and TNF.
Tremfya (guselkumab) is Janssen's offering, claiming to be the first drug in this class, while Sun Pharma's product is Ilumya (tildrakizumab).
Both products have demonstrated strong positive results in extensive global clinical trials and have now been able to show health economic value to be listed on the PBS.
Health Minister Greg Hunt said the two medicines have the potential to save patients up to $32,600 per year, adding that "our strong economic management means we are providing Australian patients with access to life-saving and life-changing medicines quicker than ever before".
The medicines are expected to benefit 3,600 Australian patients.
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