Cystic fibrosis drug KALYDECO to be launched in New Zealand by Vertex Pharmaceuticals

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is set to launch its cystic fibrosis drug KALYDECO (ivacaftor) in New Zealand, which will be available to eligible patients from next month.

The US biopharma company said that clinicians can apply for patient access using the exceptional circumstances framework under the Pharmaceutical Management Agency (PHARMAC).

Ludovic Fenaux – Senior Vice President of Vertex International said: “Today is an important day for the CF community in New Zealand. For the first time in New Zealand CF patients will have access to a medicine that treats the underlying cause of their disease. We appreciate the engagement and collaboration from PHARMAC, and other involved parties, to bring this important medicine to patients.”

According to Vertex Pharmaceuticals, its cystic fibrosis drugs are reimbursed in 20 plus countries, which includes Australia, France, Germany, Ireland, Sweden, Italy, the Netherlands, the UK, and the US.