Pharmac to fund new hepatitis C treatment

WELLINGTON: A new drug that treats hepatitis C is expected to benefit tens of thousands of New Zealanders.

Drugbuyer Pharmac announced it would fund Maviret from February for all types of the disease.

About 50,000 people are thought to have hepatitis C, which is spread mainly through intravenous needles or badly sterilised medical equipment.

It comes in six types, can cause fatal liver cancer, and increases demand for liver transplants.

The drugs Harvoni, for advanced disease in all types, and Viekira Pak, for type one, are already funded for 3000 people.

But that leaves at least 24,000 others without funded treatment.

Pharmac said Maviret covers all types, is easy to take, has almost no side effects and cures 98%99% of those taking it.

But half of those with hepatitis C do not know they have it, and identifying them is expected to be the next challenge.

Pharmac director of operations Lisa Williams said funding Maviret meant most people with hepatitis C would now have the opportunity to access a funded treatment that has the potential to cure hepatitis C.

‘‘In many instances, this treatment will avoid associated liver cancer, the need for a liver transplant or early death. Access to this drug is a significant advancement in treatment.’’ — RNZ