Cancer drug’s cost slashed

Myeloma treatment to extend lives

A NEW cancer drug that could drastically extend the lives of 1700 Australians a year waiting for a cure for their condition will be made available at a fraction of the cost from Monday.

The groundbreaking treatment for multiple myeloma — a cancer of plasma cells — is among a string of new cancer treatments added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from January 1.

Around 550 patients are expected to immediately benefit each year from the subsidised carfilzomib, marketed under the name Kyprolis, which works by reducing the growth of cancer cells and helps boost survival rates for patients.

Normally patients would pay around $138,800 per course of treatment, but the change means they will now pay a maximum of $39.50 for each script, with concessional patients paying just $6.40.

The disease can prevent healthy plasma cells from working the way they should, making the bones weaker and leading to the spread of tumours in the bones.

Of the 1700 Australians who are diagnosed with myeloma each year, almost all are older than 40 years. It is most common in people aged 60 and older.

Gary Floyd, a 71-year-old sufferer of multiple myeloma, said the treatment had changed his life. He said it “filled him with joy and hope” that others will enjoy the benefits at an affordable rate.

Myeloma Australia chief executive Steve Roach said the move would bring “great hope” to sufferers since multiple my- eloma does not have a cure and most patients will relapse.

“Everyone lives in hope for a cure, but this treatment is what’s keeping that hope alive for many people by extending their lives,” Mr Roach told News Corp.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt will also today announce the listing of alectinib, known as Alecensa, among the $300 million for new lifechanging medicines.

About 250 eligible patients suffering from anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive nonsmall cell lung cancer will be able to access the drug, which previously cost around $188,430 for each treatment.

About 330 sufferers of cystic fibrosis will also be about to access mannitol, which trades under Bronchitol, having previously paid around $4340 annually.