SASKATCHEWAN DRUG PLAN COVERAGE EXPANDED

Coverage under Saskatchewan's Drug Plan now includes two new drugs that aid in treating high cholesterol and seizures.

In total, 30 drugs were approved for coverage as of February 1st, 2004 (see attached list). Some are new additions while others are generic brands of existing medications.

One of the new drugs is Ezetrol. The medication is a new class of lipid-lowering drugs that works by preventing the absorption of cholesterol. Another new drug receiving full coverage is Keppra. It will be utilized as an add-on therapy for treatment-resistant partial seizures.

Four new drugs were approved under Exception Drug Status (EDS) for use when specific criteria are met. They are Bextra, which is an anti-inflamatory medication, Elidel used to treat atopic dermatitis, Trileptal for treatment of partial seizures, and Venofer for the treatment of an iron deficiency. Physicians and pharmacists can apply for coverage of EDS drugs on behalf of their patients.

"A top priority of our Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care is improving the quality of health services and access to care," Health Minister John Nilson said. "We want to make sure Saskatchewan residents have access to the most effective medications."

Last year, 107 new products were approved for listing in the Saskatchewan Formulary. In the 2002-03 fiscal year there were 8.4 million prescriptions processed which provided a benefit to Saskatchewan residents of $132 million. The 2003-04 fiscal year prescription benefits are expected to be about $155 million.

The Drug Plan lists about 3,500 products in the Saskatchewan Formulary and subsidizes the cost of prescription drugs for approximately 113,000 families.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083 Email: mrathwell@health.gov.sk.ca Cell: (306)537-3593