Antihormonal medicine removed in Australia will remain available in New Zealand
New Zealand will continue providing goserelin, an antihormonal drug used for cancer and endometriosis, while Australia removes the 3.6mg version from its market starting November. Pharmac confirms both 3.6mg and 10.8mg doses remain funded for New Zealand patients, with no supply disruptions expected.
New Zealand will keep goserelin, a key antihormonal medication, available for patients despite its removal in Australia. The drug, branded as Zoladex, treats conditions like breast and prostate cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and supports fertility and gender-affirming care. In New Zealand, Pharmac funds both the 3.6mg and 10.8mg doses for prostate and breast cancer patients, endometriosis symptom relief, and reproductive assistance, serving around 12,000 people annually. Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) will discontinue the 3.6mg implant in November, following AstraZeneca’s request for commercial reasons, though the 10.8mg version will remain available—though primarily for prostate cancer. This leaves Australian women using it for breast cancer treatment or recurrence prevention at risk of losing access. AstraZeneca confirmed the decision was unrelated to safety or efficacy concerns. Pharmac’s chief advisor, Adrienne Martin, stated New Zealand’s supply remains unaffected, with no plans to alter funding or distribution. The agency is monitoring the situation closely while maintaining contact with suppliers. AstraZeneca also reassured RNZ that New Zealand’s access to goserelin would not change, ensuring continuity for patients relying on the medication.
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