Cost of two lifesaving heart disease treatments slashed

The costs of the two lifesaving heart medicines have been slashed after they were added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

Previously treatment for the two kinds of heart disorder cardiomyopathy, which together affect around 4800 Australians, could cost patients up to $122,000.

Now patients will only have to pay $31.60 per script, or just $7.70 with a concession card.

The lifesaving drug has had its cost cut from $122,000 for a year of treatment.

Tafamadis (also known as Vyndamax), one of the newly listed drugs, is used to treat transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy – a rare heart disease that can present as shortness of breath and fatigue.

Around 1200 Australians are affected by the disease, which can lead to heart failure if left untreated.

The newly listed treatment works by slowing the progression of the disease, and preventing a build-up of thickened heart muscles.

The lifesaving drug had its cost cut from $122,000 for a year of treatment on May 1.

The treatment for another kind of heart disease – hypertrophic cardiomyopathy – will also have the cost of the treatment drug Camzyos subsidised.

Around 3600 Australians suffer from the disease, which causes the heart muscle to become thicker and less flexible, making it harder for the heart to fill and pump blood.

Without the newly added government subsidy, Camzyos could cost patients around $30,000 per year of treatment.

Now that they have been listed on the PBS, eligible patients will be able to pay only the cost of the script, instead of the massive upfront cost for the treatment.

“It’s vitally important that Australians have ready and affordable access to the latest treatments,” Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said.

“By listing Vyndamax and Camzyos on the PBS we’re giving patients and their doctors new options for treatment at an affordable price.

“It’s part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to keep medicines cheaper for Australians.”