Local residents with Parkinson’s disease will now have access to a new medicine on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), local federal member, Libby Coker announced today.

“Opicapone will be listed for the first time as additional therapy to treat Parkinson’s disease, helping other medications work better and for longer”, Ms Coker said.

Ms Coker met this week with local families to discuss the benefit of access to Opicapone.

She said that without subsidy, patients such as John Gray, would probably pay around $1,800 a year for treatment with Opicapone.

Because of the Albanese Government’s cheaper medicines policy which launched on the 1 January, this medicine will now cost just $30 per script, or $7.30 with a concession card.

Since July 1, 2022, there has been additional funding approved for 65 new and amended listings on the PBS.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, The Hon. Mark Butler MP

“Parkinson’s disease onset is generally gradual and early symptoms can be unnoticed but as people living with this disease would be all too aware it causes significant disability and reduces the quality of life for the patient, their family, and carers. 

“Opicapone provides an additional treatment option for those living with Parkinson’s disease.”

Quotes attributable to Libby Coker MP

“We delivered on our election commitment to cut the cost of medications for millions of

Australians by reducing the PBS co-payment to a maximum of $30 per script. This was the biggest cut to the price of medicines in the 75-year history of the PBS.

“It will greatly help reduce the cost-of-living expenses for people with Parkinson’s’ in our region.”

Quotes attributable to Ms Faye Gray, wife of John Gray 

“Including Opicapone on the PBS is amazing. My husband will now be able to use Opicapone as an adjunct to his daily medication – it will enhance his quality of life, without adding significantly to our medical costs.”