Pharmac proposing to improve treatment options for New Zealanders who have experienced serious cardiovascular events
Pharmac is seeking feedback on a proposal to fund prasugrel, a medicine that helps reduce the risk of blood clots and reduce the risk of serious heart-related events.
The proposal would make prasugrel available to people who have had a heart attack or undergone certain procedures, such as angioplasty or stent placement.
Michaela Lion, Pharmac’s Manager, Pharmaceutical Funding, says the proposal would provide another funded treatment option for people who need medicines to prevent potentially life-threatening blood clots.
“After a heart attack or some heart procedures, people are often prescribed medicines that help stop blood clots from forming and reduce the risk of further cardiovascular events,” says Lion.
“We know that not every medicine works the same way for every person. For some people, currently funded treatment options may not be suitable because of allergy, intolerance, or reduced effectiveness.
Funding prasugrel would provide clinicians with another option when deciding on the treatment that best meets the person's needs.
Prasugrel was previously funded in New Zealand but became unavailable after it was discontinued by its supplier in 2021.
“This proposal would make the medicine available again and increase treatment choice for around 4000 people at risk of serious heart-related events,” Lion says.
Prasugrel is taken once a day, which may make treatment easier for some people.
Pronunciation guide
Prasugrel | PRASS-you-grel