Tofacitinib (sold as Xeljanz), is already available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), but will be extended to include treatment of patients with psoriatic arthritis.
More than 4800 patients are expected to benefit from the subsidy, which will allow them to access the medicine for $40.30 per script, or $6.50 with a concession card – a saving of up to $16,000 per year.
Clinical trials in the US show the drug improves joint tenderness and swelling by at least 20 per cent, but as with any medication there are possible side effects.
If you have psoriatic arthritis, ask your specialist if the medication could work for you.
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