Australia lists first subsidised medical cannabis drug

The epilepsy drug, Epidyolex has become the first medical cannabis product to be subsidised by the Australian Government.

Australians living with the rare form of epilepsy known as Dravet syndrome, will now have access to the cannabis-derived drug via the country’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the first time.

As of 1 May, 2021, Epidyolex, which contains CBD, is listed on the PBS for patients with the treatment-resistant condition, to be used in combination with at least two other anti-epileptic medicines. 

Epidyolex is only the second medicinal cannabis drug registered for supply in Australia, and the first one to be subsidised by the Government on the PBS.

Dravet syndrome is a rare, genetic epileptic encephalopathy that gives rise to seizures which don’t respond well to the standard medications.

It is estimated that around 116 patients each year will benefit from the listing of Epidyolex, who might otherwise pay more than $24,000 per year for the treatment. 

They will now pay only $41.30 per script or $6.60 if they have a concession card.

According to a report by FreshLeaf Analytics published last year, there are now around 30,000 medical cannabis patients in Australia with “record-numbers” of doctors prescribing.

But as prescriptions are not covered under the PBS, they remain costly compared to conventional medicines and out of reach for many.

In a statement announcing the listing of Epidyolex, Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt said the Government’s commitment to ensuring patients can access affordable medicines “remains rock solid”. 

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