Pharmac has confirmed changes to Special Authority renewal requirements for selected medicines and products.
From 1 December 2025, renewal will no longer be required for the following treatments:
insulin pump consumables for type 1 diabetes
continuous glucose monitors (interoperable and standalone) for type 1 diabetes
LAMA/LABA inhalers for respiratory conditions
epoetin alfa for chronic renal failure
budesonide capsules for Crohn’s disease and microscopic colitis
febuxostat for gout
This change supports updates to the Pharmaceutical Schedule rules to allow for longer prescription periods.
More information is available on the Pharmac website.
Pharmac thanks everyone who provided feedback during consultation, your input helped shape this decision.
Kathy joined Pinnacle earlier this month as clinical diabetes specialist for Waikato, replacing the role previously held by Anne Waterman.
Read moreBoth dulaglutide (Trulicity™) and Liraglutide (Victoza™) can be initiated for new patients who meet the special authority criteria from 1st July 2025.
Read moreThis programme provides funding for Aclasta infusions for eligible patients. The infusion is to be provided in the community by the patient’s general practice.
View detailsA guide for clinical management of type 2 diabetes, to support nurses at all levels to develop their knowledge and clinical reasoning in diabetes care.