Ponesimod approved for MS
Ponesimod (Ponvory) has received TGA approval for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS).
The sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) receptor 1 modulator is approved for use in adult RMS patients “with active disease defined by clinical or imaging features”, according to the TGA decision summary, which notes that the drug binds relevant receptors on lymphocytes and prevents them leaving the lymph nodes, reducing their presence in peripheral blood.
“The mechanism by which ponesimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis may involve reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system,” the TGA website states.
Ponvory is an oral medication marketed by Janssen Cilag, with tablet dosages ranging from 2 mg to 20 mg.
Prescription costs eased with PBS Safety Net changes
Patients with chronic diseases will have the financial burden for medication costs eased by an announcement of the lowering of PBS safety net thresholds in the 2022 Budget.
From July 1 the threshold for access for general patients will be lowered by the equivalent of two scripts, from $1,542.10 to $1,457.10, a saving of up to $85. This means that after the equivalent of about 34 full-priced general co-payments, general patients pay only the concessional co-payment of $6.80 per PBS script for the balance of the year.
For concession card holders, the threshold will be reduced by the equivalent of 12 scripts from $326.40 to $244.80, a saving of up to $81.60. When concession card holders reach the safety net threshold, after 36 full-priced concessional scripts, they will receive PBS medicines at no charge for the balance of the year.
The measure is costing $525.3 million over four years from 2022–23.