Pharmac has announced it will fully fund the EpiPen brand of adrenaline auto injectors for people who have experienced anaphylaxis.
Health Minister, Andrew Little said the decision will be life changing for thousands of New Zealanders.
From February 1 2023, the EpiPen will be available for people who have previously experienced a severe allergic reaction or been at significant risk.
“It is expected that there will be around 12,000 people accessing adrenaline auto-injectors in the first year of funding, increasing to 17,000 people per year after five years,” said Minister Little.
“This decision will make a considerable difference to people’s lives and that of their whānau and caregivers.
“The Government’s increase in the pharmaceuticals budget since 2017 has enabled Pharmac to fund 70 new medicines and widen access to over 130, with more to come,” he said.
