Australian MS patients risk losing access to vital medications due to pricing disputes

Thousands of Australians with multiple sclerosis may lose access to heavily subsidized drugs if the government forces significant price cuts. Two life-changing MS medications, Ocrevus and Kesimpta, are under review for the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, with the government pushing for a substantial price reduction. Without subsidies, these drugs could cost patients over $30,000 annually. The pricing dispute is linked to a benchmark system and US drug pricing policies, with manufacturers threatening to withdraw the drugs from the scheme if price cuts are implemented.