Proposal to decline inactive funding applications
What we’re proposing
To help make our decision-making process clearer, we are seeking feedback on a proposal for PHARMAC to make decisions to decline the 97 funding applications detailed in the tables below.
These applications are inactive, meaning that PHARMAC is not currently actively undertaking any work to progress these applications for funding.
Further information about this proposal, including details of each application and how to provide feedback follows below.
Consultation closes at 5 pm on Friday 30 July 2021 and feedback can be emailed to applicationfeedback@pharmac.govt.nz
Why we’re proposing this
PHARMAC’s role is to decide which medicines are funded to get the best health outcomes from within a fixed budget, and we know that the decisions we make impact nearly every New Zealander. All funded medicines are listed on the Pharmaceutical Schedule(external link).
We are committed to making our decision-making process faster, and clearer and simpler for people to understand. We want to ensure that people can easily see what is happening with funding applications. This includes making it clearer what stage applications are at in our processes, and why we make our decisions.
We’ve heard from New Zealanders that they want PHARMAC to reach decisions on funding applications so they can have some certainty, even if our decision is to decline funding.
To give people more clarity about what we may – and may not – fund, we’re looking to make decisions to decline funding for a number of inactive applications. This will make it clearer to everyone whether a medicine is, or is not, being actively considered for funding.
There are a range of reasons a funding application may be inactive, including:
- our expert clinical advisors recommended that the funding application be declined
- other more clinically preferred medicines for the same condition are now funded, making the funding application no longer relevant
- the medicine would provide no additional benefits over other treatments we already fund, or may be harmful
- no company is willing to supply the medicine in New Zealand.
Feedback from this consultation will help us make decisions on the funding applications for the medicines detailed in this consultation.
Details about our proposal
We have identified inactive funding applications for 85 different medicines that we are proposing to decline. For each of these funding applications, we have provided our rationale as to why we are considering declining the application. In the majority of cases, it is because we received advice from our clinical advisors to decline the application. Alternatively, it is because, since we received the application, we have funded a clinically alternative medicine.
PHARMAC has not yet made a decision about these funding applications.
Before we do, we want to hear from people and communities about whether it would be appropriate to decline funding for these medicines for the use requested. We want to ensure any final decisions are made having considered all relevant information, so we are also interested in receiving any information about the 98 medicines and indications we’re consulting on that would lead us to reconsider our proposal to decline funding for them.
A decline decision would mean the medicine would not be funded for the use requested. However, it would not prevent PHARMAC from reconsidering funding for these medicines in the future if, for instance, new evidence or other relevant information that addresses the reasons for the decline decision became available.
All consultation responses will be considered before making a final decision on any of these funding applications. These decisions would be made by the PHARMAC Board or its delegate using PHARMAC’s Factors for consideration. We expect to make these decisions over the next few months, depending on the feedback we receive.
Information about how PHARMAC decides which medicines to fund is explained on our website. See the following links:
Common terms used when describing our funding application assessment and decision-making process are explained in the following table.
|
Term |
What does it mean? |
|---|---|
|
Application |
A funding application received from a supplier, clinician, consumer or generated by PHARMAC staff. |
|
Inactive application |
Following consideration of expert clinical advice, PHARMAC is not currently actively undertaking any work to progress the medicine for funding for the use requested. |
|
The Factors for Consideration are the framework PHARMAC uses when making funding decisions. The Factors are not weighted or applied rigidly, and not every factor is relevant for every funding decision PHARMAC makes. This is because the situation for one assessment may require quite different considerations compared with another. Funding decisions are made relative to other options, and the context within which decisions are made is constantly changing. |
|
|
Medsafe-approved |
Medsafe(external link) is responsible for the regulation of medicines and medical devices in New Zealand, ensuring they are acceptably safe. |
|
PHARMAC’s primary clinical advisory committee, the Pharmacology and Therapeutics Advisory Committee, is made up of senior health practitioners from a range of specialities. PTAC considers clinical evidence for funding applications and takes into account all of PHARMAC's Factors for Consideration before making recommendations to PHARMAC. PTAC’s role is to provide objective clinical advice to PHARMAC. |
|
|
PTAC has over 20 expert Subcommittees which provide clinical evaluations in specialist areas. PTAC subcommittees meet as required to discuss issues referred to them by PTAC or PHARMAC. |
|
|
CaTSoP |
Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC – the expert Subcommittee relating to cancer treatments. |
|
Recommended for decline |
A recommendation to PHARMAC from PTAC or a Subcommittee to decline the funding application. A recommendation is not a decision by PHARMAC. |
|
Cost neutral recommendation |
A recommendation to PHARMAC from a clinical advisory committee (PTAC or a Subcommittee) to only fund a medicine if it costs the same or less than another comparable medicine (ie one that is already funded which provides the same or similar health benefits). |
|
Proposing to decline |
A proposal from PHARMAC to make a decision to decline funding for a medicine. This is issued before a final decision is made. |
|
Decline decision |
A decision by PHARMAC (the Board or its delegate), using the Factors for Consideration, to decline funding for a medicine. PHARMAC decides which medicines will be funded, comparing all the options, to ensure we are getting the best possible health outcomes for New Zealander from a fixed budget set by the Minister of Health. |
Applications that we are proposing to decline
In the table below you can find information on each of the applications that we are proposing to decline. For ease of navigation, the applications have been categorised by therapeutic group. The reason why we are proposing that the application is declined can be found in the 3rd column in the table (the column is titled “Why we are proposing this application be declined”).
In a number of cases, we are proposing that the application be declined as we received advice from our expert clinical advisors that we should decline the application. In these cases, further information on why our advisors recommended decline can be found by following these steps:
- Click on the ‘here’ hyperlink within the relevant Clinical advice summary column OR click on the hyperlink in the Applicant and brand name column. This will take you to the appropriate page on PHARMAC’s Application Tracker.
- Once on the Application Tracker, click on the pharmaceutical name and indication. This opens up the application page.
- Click on the words ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’. This will open a list of the meetings in date sequence at which the application was considered by our clinical advisors.
- Meeting records (record) from each of the meetings can be accessed by clicking on the text underneath the word ‘Links’.
- To find the relevant section within the records either scroll through or use ‘ctrl and F’ to open the search function and search using the medicine name or the indication.
Please note that if you don’t want to click on the hyperlinks in the table below that you can search for the pharmaceutical directly from the main Application Tracker(external link) on the PHARMAC website and then select the correct indication.
Applications that we are proposing to decline
Alimentary and metabolism
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Benefibre - Fibre supplement for constipation |
The Nephrology Subcommittee of PTAC recommended this application be declined at its meeting in December 2014 [PDF, 86 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Calcium phosphate oral rinse for oral mucositis following chemotherapy or radiation therapy |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined. It was last discussed at its meeting in September 2018. [PDF, 692 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Citrulline - A nutritional product for use in urea cycle disorders |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2017 [PDF, 879 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Dapagliflozin with metformin hydrochloride for type 2 diabetes |
Since this application was received a clinical alternative treatment, empagliflozin with metformin hydrochloride(external link), has been funded. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. |
|
|
Golimumab for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2017 [PDF, 879 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Saxagliptin for type 2 diabetes |
Since this application was received a clinical alternative treatment, vildagliptin(external link), has been funded. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. |
|
|
Sitagliptin for type 2 diabetes |
Since this application was received a clinical alternative treatment, vildagliptin(external link), has been funded. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. |
|
|
Sitagliptin and metformin for type 2 diabetes |
Since this application was received a clinical alternative treatment, vildagliptin with metformin hydrochloride(external link), has been funded. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. |
|
|
Ursodeoxycholic acid for cystic fibrosis related liver disease |
The Gastrointestinal Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2014. [PDF, 124 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Ursodeoxycholic acid for total parenteral nutrition induced cholestasis in adults; non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; prophylaxis of colon cancer in IBD |
The Gastrointestinal Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in December 2012. [PDF, 80 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Blood and Blood Forming Organs
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Erythropoietin - Anaemia in cancer patients |
PTAC discussed this application at its meeting in February 2006 [PDF, 41 KB] and recommended that no changes be made to funding of erythropoietin in this respect. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Oral Iron Chelators - Deferasirox, Deferiprone - Transfusional iron overload secondary to stem cell transplants and myelodysplasia |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined. It was last discussed at its meeting in November 2010. [PDF, 145 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Prasugrel for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with reduced function of CYP2C19 enzyme |
The Cardiovascular Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined. It was last discussed at its meeting in October 2010. [PDF, 116 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Ticagrelor 60 mg - High risk patients commencing 1 -3 years post-ACS event |
The Cardiovascular Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined. It was last discussed at its meeting in September 2017. [PDF, 178 KB] |
Please clickhere(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Ticagrelor - Removal of Special Authority |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2016. [PDF, 847 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Tinzaparin Sodium - Thrombosis |
PTAC recommended that tinzaparin sodium should not be listed on the Hospital Medicines List at its meeting in February 2014. [PDF, 349 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Cardiovascular System
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bumetanide oral suspension for complex congenital heart disease |
PHARMAC staff understand that there is currently no Medsafe approved product available in New Zealand. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Eplerenone - Heart failure: ejection fraction <=40%, and diabetes or a risk of diabetes |
The Cardiovascular Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined. It was last discussed at its meeting in May 2019. [PDF, 803 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Evolocumab for familial hypercholesterolaemia |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in November 2018 [PDF, 364 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Ivabradine for chronic heart failure |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in August 2017 [PDF, 601 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Ranolazine - Angina, where nicorandil or perhexiline has failed |
The Cardiovascular Subcommittee discussed this application at its meeting in May 2019 [PDF, 803 KB]. It noted that alternative treatments are now available and the supplier of ranolazine is now not willing to make an offer to supply. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Dermatology
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Clindamycin phosphate, topical - Acne |
PTAC recommended against the listing of topical clindamycin at its meeting in August 2003 [PDF, 61 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Heparinoid cream 0.3% - Bruising, inflammation and discomfort following arteriovenous fistula surgeries and cannulation |
The Dermatology Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2012 [PDF, 50 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Sodium hypochlorite, 5% diluted - Eczema in cases with secondary bacterial infection |
PTAC recommended this application be declined at its meeting in May 2016 [PDF, 1.2 MB]. It considered simple bleach could be bought for a lower price than the co-payment. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Super Oxidising Solution - Various dermatological indications |
The Dermatology Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in November 2015. [PDF, 103 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Genito-Urinary System
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lactic acid and thymol gel - Bacterial vaginosis |
The Reproductive and Sexual Health Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in April 2017. [PDF, 215 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Sodium hyaluronate and sodium chondroitin sulphate prefilled syringe - Painful bladder syndrome and interstitial cystitis |
PTAC recommended this application be declined at its meeting in November 2016. [PDF, 687 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Hormone Preparations - Systemic Excluding Contraceptive Hormones
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Whole Thyroid Extract, Normal Release T3 and Extended Release T3. - Hypothyroidism |
PTAC recommended this application be declined at its meeting in November 2018. [PDF, 364 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Infections - Agents for Systemic Use
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Clarithromycin - Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus for beta lactam allergic patients |
Clinician application (Apo-Clarithromycin, Klacid)(external link) |
The Anti-Infective Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2014. [PDF, 77 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
D-mannose - Uncomplicated cystitis during pregnancy or associated with neurogenic bladder |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2017. [PDF, 534 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Posaconazole - Prophylaxis of fungal infection in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia |
The Haematology Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in August 2012. [PDF, 137 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Posaconazole - Prophylaxis of fungal infection in patients with aplastic anaemia |
The Haematology Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in August 2012. [PDF, 137 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Telaprevir - Chronic hepatitis C, genotype 1 |
Since this application was received several alternative medicines for the treatment of hepatitis C have been funded, including glecaprevir with pibrentasvir (Maviret).(external link) |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Tobramycin ampoules - Non-cystic fibrosis patients with bronchiectasis |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in August 2015. [PDF, 378 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Musculoskeletal System
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mefenamic acid - Full funding for primary dysmenorrhoea, dysfunctional uterine bleeding and pain or menorrhagia |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in November 2014. [PDF, 290 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Strontium ranelate - Osteoporosis (2nd-line treatment) |
The Endocrinology Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in July 2014 [PDF, 77 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
National Immunisation Schedule
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, hepatitis B and haemophilus type B vaccine - Changing pertussis component to a two component vaccine |
PTAC discussed two component pertussis vaccines versus three component pertussis vaccines and recommended that PHARMAC not change to a two component pertussis vaccine at its meeting in November 2013. [PDF, 206 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Inactivated influenza vaccine, adjuvanted (Fluad) 2019 - Influenza |
The Immunisation Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application for a trivalent adjuvanted infleunza vaccine be declined at its meeting in September 2018. [PDF, 457 KB] The Subcommittee subsequently considered an application for a quadrivalent, adjuvanted influenza vaccine (Fluad Quad) in September 2020 [PDF, 129 KB]. This is now funded for the 2021 flu season. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
MMR vaccine - Vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella, changing age at when vaccine is given |
The Immunisation Subcommittee of PTAC discussed the timing of the MMR vaccine doses (15 months and 4 years) at its meeting in April 2013. [PDF, 82 KB] It considered it would be inappropriate to recommend a change to the timing of the vaccination. In October 2020 the Ministry of Health introduced a 12 month visit for the childhood immunisation schedule and changed the timing of MMR doses to 12 months and 15 months of age. This 2020 change supersedes the previous advice therefore making this proposal redundant. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Pneumococcal (PCV13) vaccine - Immunisation of adults over 65 years |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in August 2015. [PDF, 378 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Pneumococcal vaccine - People with rheumatological conditions on biologic treatments |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in August 2016. [PDF, 348 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Pneumococcal vaccine - Pneumovax 23 - Individuals with untreated chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL). |
The Immunisation Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in October 2019. [PDF, 264 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Pneumococcal vaccine - Prevention of pneumococcal diseases in individuals with neuromuscular conditions |
The Immunisation Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in July 2017. [PDF, 175 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Nervous System
|
Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Buprenorphine patches - Pain - persistent moderate/severe |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2019. [PDF, 787 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Buprenorphine sublingual tablets - Opioid dependence during pregnancy and breastfeeding |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2015. [PDF, 498 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Capsaicin 0.075% cream - Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2019 [PDF, 787 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Doxylamine - use in nausea and vomiting of pregnancy |
The Analgesic Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in December 2019 [PDF, 181 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Fentanyl citrate sublingual tablets - Pain management for oncology patients |
The Analgesic Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in March 2018. [PDF, 293 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Lidocaine [Lignocaine] With Prilocaine - Removal of Special Authority |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2014. [PDF, 286 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Lidocaine [Lignocaine] With Prilocaine – Pain – Community listing |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2014. [PDF, 286 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Lidocaine 2.5%, prilocaine 2.5% dental cartridges - Topical local anaesthetic for dental use |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in November 2018. [PDF, 364 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Micronutrient formulas - ADHD and/or mood dysregulation |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2016. [PDF, 1.2 MB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Modafinil - Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2020 [PDF, 303 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Modafinil - Mood disorders, psychoses, attention deficit disorders, drug dependency and shift workers |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in November 2014. [PDF, 653 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
|
Naltrexone hydrochloride - Removal of Special Authority |
The Mental Health Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in July 2013. [PDF, 121 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
|
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Paliperidone, risperidone, olanzapine depot injections - Amending access criteria |
The Mental Health Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in June 2015. [PDF, 12 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Paracetamol 500 mg with ibuprofen 150 mg - Analgesia |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in November 2010. [PDF, 287 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Riluzole - Amending access for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis |
This application was reviewed by the Neurological Subcommittee of PTAC at its meeting in September 2013. [PDF, 307 KB] It was not supportive of amending the current criteria. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Rotigotine - Parkinson's disease |
PTAC discussed rotigotine for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease at its meeting in November 2014 [PDF, 290 KB]. It considered that it should only be funded if it is cost-neutral to the funded clinical alternative treatments ropinirole(external link) or pramipexole(external link). |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Tetracaine (amethocaine) gel 4% (community listing) - Pain |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2014. [PDF, 286 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Triptans - almotriptan, avitriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan succinate, zolmitrioptan - Listing of additional triptans on the Pharmaceutical Schedule for use in migraines with specific focus on onset of pharmaceutical action. |
The Neurological Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in September 2013. [PDF, 307 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Varenicline Tartrate - Adjustment to treatment periods |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2016. [PDF, 847 KB] Following this application, PHARMAC considered and approved a subsequent application from 1 October 2019 for varenicline to allow one 12-week course to be funded every 6 months for eligible people wanting to quit smoking (funding was limited to every 12 months). Therefore the application for adjustment to treatment periods is redundant. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Oncology Agents and Immunosuppressants
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Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
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Bevacizumab - Metastatic colorectal cancer - first-line and second-line treatment |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in July 2019 [PDF, 434 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Bevacizumab - Ovarian cancer, advanced |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in September 2015. [PDF, 83 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Bevacizumab - Relapsed, recurrent glioblastoma multiforme |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2016 [PDF, 847 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Cetuximab - Colorectal cancer, K-RAS wild-type metastatic, first-line neoadjuvant, metastases limited to liver |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in October 2014 [PDF, 66 KB]. Please note, an application for cetuximab for colorectal cancer, metastatic, RAS wild-type, left-sided, first-line remains under active consideration and is not included in this proposal to decline applications. More details on this active application can be found here(external link). |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Cetuximab - Colorectal cancer, K-RAS wild-type metastatic, metastases limited to liver, with irinotecan |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in August 2014. [PDF, 240 KB] Please note, an application for cetuximab for colorectal cancer, metastatic, RAS wild-type, left-sided, first-line remains under active consideration and is not included in this proposal to decline applications. More details on this active application can be found here(external link). |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Cetuximab - Colorectal cancer, K-RAS wild-type metastatic, refractory to irinotecan and oxaliplatin |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in September 2013 [PDF, 195 KB]. Please note, an application for cetuximab for colorectal cancer, metastatic, RAS wild-type, left-sided, first-line remains under active consideration and is not included in this proposal to decline applications. More details on this active application can be found here(external link). |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Crizotinib - Non-small cell lung cancer, advanced, anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive |
Since this application was received a clinical alternative treatment, alectinib(external link), has been funded. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Etanercept - Behcet's disease |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2015. [PDF, 909 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Everolimus - Rejection of renal/cardiac transplants - preventative |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2007. [PDF, 187 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Fulvestrant - Breast cancer - locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer (1st line treatment) |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in September 2018. [PDF, 692 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Gefitinib - Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). second-line, locally advanced or metastatic |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2009 [PDF, 88 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Lapatinib ditosylate - Breast cancer - Second line metastatic HER2 positive breast cancer |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in March 2013. [PDF, 76 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Mycophenolate sodium - Acute transplant rejection prophylaxis in patients receiving allogeneic renal transplants |
A clinical alternative treatment, mycophenolate mofetil,(external link) is funded. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Olmesartan - Sarcoidosis |
PTAC considered that there was insufficient evidence to support the funding of olmesartan for use in patients with sarcoidosis at its meeting in February 2014. [PDF, 349 KB] |
Please clickhere(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Pazopanib - Advanced soft tissue sarcoma after prior chemotherapy |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in November 2017. [PDF, 764 KB] |
Please clickhere(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Pembrolizumab - Urothelial carcinoma, locally advanced/metastatic, first-line, not eligible for cisplatin |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in April 2019. [PDF, 710 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Pertuzumab - Breast cancer, HER2-positive, locally advanced, inflammatory or early-stage, neoadjuvant treatment |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in September 2018. [PDF, 692 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Rituximab - Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, 17p del |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in October 2012. [PDF, 154 KB] |
Please clickhere(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Rituximab - Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2015. [PDF, 498 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Rituximab, subcutaneous - Non-Hodgkin lymphoma |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in November 2017. [PDF, 764 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Sunitinib - Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in March 2015. [PDF, 535 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Tacrolimus - Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders |
The Neurological Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2019. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Teniposide - Multiple myeloma |
The Cancer Treatments Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in March 2017. [PDF, 276 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Vismodegib - Basal cell carcinoma in patients with Gorlin syndrome |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2015. [PDF, 909 KB] |
Please clickhere(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Respiratory System and Allergies
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Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
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Allergen Pollen Extract Of 5 Grasses - Allergic rhinitis |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2017. [PDF, 879 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Tiotropium bromide - Severe uncontrolled asthma |
PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in May 2017. [PDF, 534 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Sensory organs
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Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
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Aflibercept - Diabetic macular oedema, first-line of anti-VEGF |
The Ophthalmology Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in February 2016 [PDF, 99 KB]. The Subcommittee recommended that aflibercept be funded as a second-line anti-VEGF for diabetic macular oedema. Aflibercept was funded as a second-line agent in June 2018. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Cysteamine/mercaptamine (eye drops) - Cystinosis |
Recordati Rare Diseases Australia (Recordati)(external link) |
The Rare Disorders Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in September 2019 [PDF, 394 KB]. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Special Foods
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Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
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Elemental Formula - Alfare - Cow's milk protein allergy, food intolerance and hypersensitivity |
PHARMAC staff understand that the supplier no longer wishes to pursue this application. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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High protein enteral feed with fibre 1.28 kcal/ml (Nutrison Protein Plus Multi Fibre) - Increased protein requirements due to mild and moderate metabolic stress, requiring enteral feed |
The Special Food Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in July 2015. [PDF, 50 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Hydrolysed Rice Protein Formula - Risolac - Cow's milk protein or soy protein allergy |
PHARMAC staff understand that Risolac is not available in New Zealand and the supplier does not want to pursue this application. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Infant formula, standard - Infants whose mothers cannot breastfeed |
The Special Food Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in December 2013. [PDF, 125 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Oral Feed 1.25 kcal/ml - Cubitan - Pressure ulcers |
The Special Food Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in December 2017. [PDF, 564 KB] |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
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Oral Feed - Calogen Extra - Oral nutrition support for malnutrition and those at risk of malnutrition |
The Special Food Subcommittee of PTAC recommended that this application be declined at its meeting in December 2013. [PDF, 125 KB] |
Please clickhere(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
Various
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Pharmaceutical and indication |
Applicant and brand name (if relevant/ specified) |
Why we are proposing this application be declined |
Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
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Fomepizole - Methanol poisoning |
PTAC recommended that fomepizole in the treatment of ethylene glycol or methanol poisoning should be funded only if cost-neutral to the health sector, at its meeting in November 2019. [PDF, 559 KB] PHARMAC staff understand that this would not be possible. |
Please click here(external link) for further information. Click on the Pharmaceutical name, and when the Application opens select ‘Seeking Clinical Advice’ tab. The record detailing the clinical advice can be found under ‘Links’. |
To provide feedback
Send us an email: applicationfeedback@pharmac.govt.nz by 5pm on Friday 30 July 2021.
All feedback received before the closing date will be considered by PHARMAC’s Board (or its delegate) prior to making a decision on this proposal.
Your feedback may be shared
Feedback we receive is subject to the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). Please be aware that we may need to share your feedback, including your identity, in response to an OIA request. This applies to anyone providing feedback, whether they are providing feedback themselves or for an organisation, in a personal or professional capacity.
We can only keep feedback confidential as allowed under the OIA and other related laws. If you want any part of your feedback treated as confidential, you need to tell us. Please let us know if you want to keep part of your feedback confidential, and why. Is it commercially sensitive, confidential or proprietary, or personal information? Clearly state this and tell us which parts of your feedback you want to keep confidential for these reasons. We will consider your request under our OIA requirements.