ASID supports the concerns of the Refugee Health Network of Australia, calling for a re-listing of Praziquantel on the PBS
On 1/5/25 praziquantel was delisted from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia. Domestic production was also ceased this year by Bayer. Praziquantel is the recommended treatment for schistosomiasis, a chronic infection which has infected an estimated 252 million people worldwide. Untreated schistosomiasis can cause irreversible damage to the urinary and digestive systems, increased risk of cancer, increased maternal and infant mortality, and death (1).
Chronic schistosomiasis screening is recommended in refugees and migrants from endemic countries during their initial medical workup in Australia (2). Due to the PBS delisting of praziquantel, these patients will now be unable to access praziquantel without a private script costing $250.00 AUD for a course of 6 tablets which is unaffordable for many new migrants and refugees (3). The only alternative will be referring all patients to hospital pharmacies and requesting a special access scheme which still carries a copayment of $50-90. This latter option is also difficult logistically for general practitioners and patients to access and could put further strain on public hospital waiting lists.
ASID supports the RHeaNA request that the TGA consider relisting praziquantel on the PBS to improve access to this essential drug by some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Read full letter of endorsement for support here