This is the text extract for Fluorouracil sodium 5% cream (Efudix) funding proposal, browse documents here.

7 November 2008

Fluorouracil sodium 5% cream (Efudix) funding proposal approved

PHARMAC is pleased to announce the approval of a supply agreement with Pacific Pharmaceuticals Ltd for fluorouracil sodium 5% cream (Efudix). Efudix is used as a topical treatment for superficial pre-malignant and malignant skin lesions.

Summary of the decision

Efudix will be fully funded in Section B of the Pharmaceutical Schedule from 1 December 2008 at a subsidy and price of $26.49 per 20 g (ex-manufacturer, excluding GST). Efudix will also be listed in Section H of the Pharmaceutical Schedule. In addition the “Retail pharmacy-Specialist” restriction has been removed. This means that from 1 December 2008 prescriptions written by non-specialist practitioners will no longer require a specialist endorsement for subsidy. If you have any queries about this funding decision you can call our toll free number (9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday) on 0800 66 00 50.

What feedback was received?

We appreciate the feedback we received and acknowledge the time people took to respond. All consultation responses were considered in the decision on the proposed changes. All responses were supportive of the proposal to fully subsidise Efudix and generally supportive of the removal of the specialist restriction. As part of removing the specialist restriction there was some concern raised regarding the adverse effects associated with Efudix and the possible inappropriate use of Efudix without a suitable education programme. PHARMAC is planning on including Efudix in an educational campaign in the near future to try and address these issues.

A242283 - T08-190

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