HEPATITIS C, HIV DRUGS ADDED TO PLAN

Twelve drug products have been approved for coverage under the Saskatchewan Drug Plan, including new medications used in the treatment of Hepatitis C and HIV.

Two of the products approved for coverage effective April 1st are new treatments, while the others are new dosages or forms of existing products or generic drugs that can be prescribed as alternatives to name-brand products.

The two new medications are Pegetron, which has shown to more effectively decrease the Hepatitis C virus than other medications and reduce liver-related complications; and Valcyte, used to treat an eye condition in patients with HIV.

"Our independent drug review committee looks at whether a drug is effective and provides the greatest value to the health care system," Health Minister John Nilson said. "We are pleased to provide new treatments that improve the health and well being of Saskatchewan residents."

Pegetron and Valcyte will be available for coverage under Exception Drug Status (EDS). To receive coverage, a physician or pharmacist can request EDS coverage on behalf of their client and specific medical criteria must be met.

Five new drugs were reviewed and not approved for coverage. Drugs are not approved when the clinical results are uncertain or the benefits are not considered sufficient to warrant coverage. Currently, nine products are still under review.

Saskatchewan Drug Plan expenditures this fiscal year are anticipated to be $154.9 million. The Saskatchewan Prescription Drug Plan currently covers about 3,500 products and assists 185,500 residents each year. The Drug Plan assists with drug costs for low-income families or families with high drug costs.

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For More Information, Contact:

Vanessa Gooliaff Beaupre Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083 Email: vgooliaff@health.gov.sk.ca Cell: (306)537-3593