Pharmac is widening access to a medicine called denosumab for people with osteoporosis. A higher dose of the medicine will also be funded for people with cancer who have high levels of calcium in their blood.

“Denosumab helps maintain bone strength, prevents fractures, and keeps blood calcium levels healthy," said Pharmac Senior Therapeutic Group Manager/Team Leader Alexandra Compton.

“One of the benefits of this medicine for people with osteoporosis is that it’s an injection they can give to themselves or can be given by a caregiver. They won’t need to see their health care professional for treatment – it’s a win win for individuals and the public health sector."

In their consultation feedback, Osteoporosis NZ applauded Pharmac on the proposal.

"We believe this will be a game changer and will greatly improve and enhance the current deficiencies associated with fragility fracture prevention in New Zealand," an Osteoporosis NZ spokesperson said.

"In addition to the 500 people currently using denosumab, we estimate around 2,000 more people will use it during the first full year of funding. This is expected to increase year on year so after five years, over 12,600 more people could be taking the medicine."

Based on the feedback received during consultation, Pharmac made changes to the access criteria so it is clearer who with osteoporosis is eligible. The changes also meant a wider group of people with high blood calcium and cancer will be eligible.

Access to denosumab for people with high blood calcium will be from February 1 2025. Widened access to denosumab for people with osteoporosis will be from March 1 2025.

Pharmac can widen access to these medicines following the Government’s $604 million medicine budget increase in June 2024.

Click here to read more about the decision to widen access to denosumab for osteoporosis and people with high calcium levels associated with cancer