Te Pātaka Whaioranga – Pharmac are consulting
on the role of molnupiravir in New Zealand’s portfolio
of COVID-19 treatments. The consultation seeks feedback on
whether Pharmac should stop funding the treatment or adjust
the eligibility criteria for people who may still be
expected to benefit from treatment.
“It is important
we review the ongoing role of antivirals and make decisions
based on advice and evidence,” says Pharmac’s Chief
Medical Officer Dr David Hughes. “The COVID-19 environment
has changed since molnupiravir became available in May 2022.
We need to make sure it could still provide meaningful
benefits for eligible New Zealanders.”
“We are
aware there is evolving evidence that suggests that
molnupiravir may no longer be as effective compared to what
we knew when molnupiravir was first purchased, and
guidelines published recently have recommended that
molnupiravir is no longer used. However, we are keen to
understand if there are populations who may benefit from
having the treatment available, where other options are not
appropriate.”
“Consulting on any changes in access
to treatments is a usual part of Pharmac process. This is an
opportunity for New Zealanders to tell us what they think
and for us to consider all information and
perspectives,”
Pharmac has received clinical advice
from the COVID-19 Treatments Advisory Group and from primary
care clinicians on Pharmac’s Specialist Advisory
Committees. The position of the Manatū Hauora COVID-19
Therapeutic Technical Advisory Group and evidence in the
PANORAMIC trial will also be considered.
“Since the
pandemic began, we purchased a range of products with
limited amounts of evidence to make sure New Zealanders
could get treatments to protect against severe illness. We
will continue to seek updated clinical advice from our
expert advisory network on all treatments.” concludes Dr
Hughes.
Molnupiravir is still available in the
community at pharmacies and from Te Whatu Ora hospitals
subject to eligibility criteria. Following the consultation
period Pharmac will consider the feedback and expect to make
a decision on the use of molnupiravir for June
2023.
Consultation closes at 5 pm on Tuesday, 2 May
2023 and feedback can be emailed to consult@pharmac.govt.nz.
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