Good news for Australians! The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) is expanding its offerings in 2026 with new and improved medication listings. This means more affordable treatments are on the horizon for those who need them.
First up, we have an expanded use for adalimumab, commonly known as Humira. This medication is already helping children with conditions like Crohn’s disease and psoriasis. Now, it will also be available to treat juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Humira works by calming the immune system and reducing inflammation, offering much-needed relief. The government estimates that up to 30,100 Australians aged 0-24 years could benefit from this. And the best part? The cost per script drops dramatically, from around $650 to just $25, thanks to the PBS co-payment reduction that began on January 1st.
Next, we see the first-time listing of odevixibat, sold as Bylvay, for progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis. This is a group of rare genetic liver diseases that primarily affect children. This is a huge step forward for families dealing with these challenging conditions.
Also making its debut is ublituximab, known as Briumvi, for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). This medication targets the B-cells that cause inflammation, helping to reduce relapses and slow the progression of the disease. In 2024, over 14,000 patients used a similar treatment through the PBS, with a script costing around $15,000 without subsidy.
But here's where it gets interesting... This is the second month in a row that there has been a listing for RRMS treatment, following the approval of a new 'under-the-skin' injection for ocrelizumab (Ocrevus) in December.
And finally, remember that on January 1, 2026, the maximum cost of PBS medicines will be reduced from $31.60 to $25. The concessional co-payment will remain at $7.70 until 2030.
What do you think about these changes? Are you or someone you know affected by these conditions? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Do you think these changes go far enough, or are there other areas where the PBS could improve?
