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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Melissa Davey and Tom McIlroy

Life-changing MS drugs to stay on the PBS. So why are others under threat – and how is Trump involved?

PBS Mark Butler United States the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme Donald Trump PBAC Roche Novartis
A customer waits at a pharmacy counter in Canberra
The federal government says key drugs for multiple sclerosis will continue to receive taxpayer subsidies. It comes after pharmaceutical companies have pulled some drugs from the PBS in recent months. Photograph: AAP

Australians living with multiple sclerosis will continue receiving cheaper access to life-changing medical treatments, after an expert advisory panel decided to maintain taxpayer subsidies for key drugs.

The health minister, Mark Butler, confirmed on Thursday that the drugs – Ocrevus, Kesimpta and Lemtrada – would not be removed from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, ending uncertainty as manufacturers pushed the government not to reduce the price they paid for drugs.

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