Positive updates: General Practitioners (GPs) are enthusiastic about the new and updated Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) listings for Slinda, Ryeqo, and Pergoveris, set to take effect over the next six weeks.
“This is undoubtedly a very positive development.”
This sentiment comes from Dr. Sara Whitburn, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Sexual Health Medicine, following the recent PBS listings announced on Sunday, which broaden contraceptive options, treatments for endometriosis, and IVF support for women.
Beginning May 1st, drospirenone (marketed as Slinda) will be included in the PBS for the first time, providing a progestogen-only pill suitable for women who cannot use hormonal contraceptives containing estrogen.
Simultaneously, relugolix combined with estradiol and norethisterone (branded as Ryeqo) will also be incorporated into the PBS as a treatment option for endometriosis.
Starting April 1st, the amended listing of follitropin alfa combined with lutropin alfa (known as Pergoveris) will allow access to this combination therapy earlier in the IVF process, with an increase in allowable pens per prescription from two to four.
Dr. Whitburn emphasized, “This will significantly improve accessibility since we know that financial constraints often limit patient choices regarding contraception, endometriosis, and IVF treatments.” The Federal Government anticipates that over 100,000 women will benefit from the addition of Slinda. It is particularly beneficial for older women, those at a higher risk of blood clots, migraine sufferers, breastfeeding mothers, smokers, and those managing weight or hypertension issues.
Slinda offers a 24-hour missed pill window, meaning if a user is less than 24 hours late taking their next tablet, their contraceptive protection remains intact.
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) explains that drospirenone is particularly effective for women of advanced reproductive age and aids in bleeding control while being estrogen-free, making it suitable for situations where estrogen contraceptives are not advisable.
Dr. Whitburn sees the increased availability of Slinda as clinically significant. “Previously, we only had combined oral contraceptives, which may not be safe for some women. This new option significantly expands accessible, cost-effective contraceptive choices,” she stated.
Women’s health advocate and Melbourne GP Associate Professor Magdalena Simonis echoed this, stating that these listings are beneficial for GPs in addressing patient needs in an area that has historically been overlooked. “These updates enable GPs to effectively manage conditions such as severe menstrual bleeding and painful periods, which often do not respond well to standard treatments,” she remarked.
“Moreover, it recognizes that these are serious, chronic conditions with a notable impact on women’s health equity. The financial implications for women dealing with heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, and infertility are substantial.”
According to Associate Professor Simonis, the addition of Ryeqo holds promise for numerous endometriosis patients. “Access to this treatment allows us to address symptoms effectively while ensuring contraceptive coverage during a critical phase of their reproductive journeys, potentially preventing complications from disease progression and infertility,” she explained.
The treatment currently costs approximately $2,700 for a yearly supply. This announcement follows a $573.3 million initiative from the Federal Government last month, which included new PBS listings for oral contraceptives Yaz and Yasmin, enhancements to Medicare payments, increased bulk billing for intrauterine devices (IUDs) and birth control implants, as well as a new Medicare rebate for menopause assessments and training funds for healthcare professionals.
Additionally, there are PBS listings for menopausal hormone therapies such as Prometrium, Estrogel, and Estrogel Pro, along with funding for 11 new endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics, as well as national trials aimed at facilitating pharmacy access for contraceptives and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Professor Simonis indicates that these recent developments are the result of persistent advocacy over many years. “We’ve been pursuing this agenda through the National Women’s Health Strategy and collaborating with various stakeholders to promote substantial research and funding for impactful medications,” she stated.
Dr. Whitburn highlights the importance of collective advocacy from health organizations, colleges, and various individuals within women’s health sectors. “Achieving change is often challenging, but it’s heartening to witness so many collaborative efforts yielding positive outcomes in women’s health,” she remarked.
endometriosis Ryeqo Slinda women’s health
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