The Australian Government have just announced unrestricted access to the biosimilar Mvasi® from June 1.
The Australian Government have just announced unrestricted access to the biosimilar Mvasi® from June 1.
Mvasi® has been assessed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) on the basis of comparability and clinical studies to be highly similar to the reference brand, Avastin®. Mvasi® provides the same health outcomes and is as safe and effective as the reference brand, Avastin.
What does this mean?
👉 Avastin will no longer be on the PBS for its previously restricted benefits
👉 Mvasi® will replace Avastin this on the PBS, meaning all patients needing this medicine will have subsidised access to it
Whilst Avastin is on the PBS for treatment of other conditions, this excluded treatment of NF2 tumours. As a result, it limited use to those who could access drug treatment on compassionate grounds or by self-funding.
We have been in contact with Roche who produce Avastin and been assured that Avastin will still be available for those who are already receiving the medication.
If you have been prescribed Avastin and granted compassionate access speak to your healthcare provider about next steps.
From 1 June 2021 Avastin® will no longer be available on the PBS, and Mvasi® will be the sole brand available on the PBS. The Australian Government has been working with the manufacturers of this medicine to ensure continuity of supply on the PBS.
READ THE FULL PRESS RELEASE HERE