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 moreThe Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease program aims to slow progression of CKD leading to end-stage renal disease and other diabetes related complications. The aims are achieved by partnering with the patient/whanau, sharing matauranga/knowledge, improving self-management skills and strategies, and enabling appropriate treatment intensification. For people living with suboptimal diabetes (Hbalc greater than 53 mmol/mol) and CKD 3B or earlier (eGFR 30 ml/min and above), please see the referral criteria and pathway for guidance.
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.