Pharmac may expand arthritis drug funding

Arthritis New Zealand is welcoming a proposal by Government drug-buying agency Pharmac to expand the conditions for which the drug Humira will be funded.

It is currently funded to treat people with rheumatoid arthritis, but from August 1 could also be offered to those suffering from ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis.

Arthritis NZ said it had been lobbying for the change and would be giving feedback to Pharmac.

"If it goes ahead, it will be a huge relief for the people in the community with these diseases who have been denied access to the drugs that have a proven benefit," the organisation said.

- NZPA