This is the text extract for Proposal to subsidise a new brand of cabergoline. Closed., browse documents here.

4 May 2009

Proposal to subsidise a new brand of cabergoline

PHARMAC is seeking public feedback on a proposal to list Arrow’s brand of cabergoline. PHARMAC and Arrow Pharmaceuticals (NZ) Limited have entered into a provisional agreement relating to the supply of cabergoline tablets. In summary, the proposal would result in: § the listing of the Arrow-Cabergoline brand of cabergoline tablets in Section B of the Pharmaceutical Schedule under Special Authority from 1 July 2009; and a reduction of the price of Arrow-Cabergoline 12 months after listing.

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Further details of the proposal are set out on the following page.

Feedback sought PHARMAC welcomes feedback on this proposal. To provide feedback, please submit it in writing by Wednesday 13 May 2009 to: Greg Williams Therapeutic Group Manager PHARMAC Email: greg.williams@pharmac.govt.nz Fax: 04 460 4995 Post: PO Box 10 254, Wellington 6143

All feedback received before the closing date will be considered by PHARMAC’s Board (or Chief Executive acting under delegated authority) prior to making a decision on this proposal.

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Details of the proposal § The Arrow-Cabergloine brand of cabergoline tablet would be listed in Section B of the Pharmaceutical Schedule from 1 July 2009 at the following prices and subsidies (ex-manufacturer and exclusive of GST):

Chemical Cabergoline Cabergoline Presentation 0.5 mg tablet 0.5 mg tablet Brand Arrow-Cabergoline Arrow-Cabergoline Pack size 2 8 Price and subsidy $26.26 $105.03

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The current two tablet restriction, waivable under Special Authority approval, would also apply to Arrow-Cabergoline. The prices and subsidies of Arrow-Cabergoline would decrease from 1 July 2010 as follows (ex-manufacturer and exclusive of GST):

Chemical Cabergoline Cabergoline Presentation 0.5 mg tablet 0.5 mg tablet Brand Arrow-Cabergoline Arrow-Cabergoline Pack size 2 8 Price and subsidy $16.50 $66.00

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Arrow-Cabergoline would have subsidy and delisting protection until 1 July 2012.

Background Cabergoline is used for its prolactin lowering activity. A dose given as a single 1 mg administration during the first day post-partum is effective in inhibiting milk secretion, as well as breast engorgement and pain in 70-90% of women. For chronic therapy, cabergoline at doses ranging between 1 and 2 mg per week is effective in normalising serum prolactin levels in approximately 84% of hyperprolactinaemic patients. PHARMAC currently lists the Pfizer New Zealand Limited brand of cabergoline, Dostinex and no change to this listing would occur as a result of this proposal. PHARMAC funds a maximum of two tablets per prescription, although this restriction can be waived by approval under the following Special Authority:

Special Authority for Waiver of Rule - Form SA0175 Initial application only from an obstetrician, endocrinologist or gynaecologist. Approvals valid for 2 years where the patient has pathological hyperprolactinemia. Renewal only from an obstetrician, endocrinologist or gynaecologist. Approvals valid for 2 years where the treatment remains appropriate and the patient is benefiting from treatment.

A277721 - T09-281

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