FEDERAL Health Minister Mark Butler has announced the PBS listing of Ocrevus SC (ocrelizumab, Roche), the world’s first 10-minute, six-monthly injection to treat multiple sclerosis.

The quick and convenient subcutaneous injection reduces inflammation and attacks on the nervous system of patients living with relapsing-remitting MS, a debilitating form of the disease affecting more than 32,000 Australians.

Known medically as a high-efficacy disease-modifying therapy, Ocrevus works by targeting and depleting specific immune cells, known as B cells, which can mistakenly attack the myelin sheath that protects the body’s nerves.

Without the PBS subsidy, the drug cost $16,500 per injection.and MS experts and advocates have welcomed the funding.

“Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease,” said Associate Professor John Parratt, a neurologist from Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital.

“Without effective treatment, it can rob people of their movement, energy, sight and independence, and the availability of a new treatment option is extremely welcome.”

MS is also on the rise in Australia, with new data released by this week reporting a 77% increase in the number of people living with the disease since 2010.

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